Theft & Property Crime Defense
From petit larceny to grand theft and auto theft, property crime charges in Oklahoma carry penalties that can include prison time, heavy fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. I provide aggressive defense for property crime charges across Oklahoma.
Understanding Theft Charges in Oklahoma
Oklahoma law distinguishes between several categories of theft and property crimes, with penalties based primarily on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the offense. Since State Question 780 (2016), the felony theft threshold in Oklahoma was raised to $1,000 — meaning thefts of property valued under $1,000 are now misdemeanors rather than felonies.
Petit Larceny (property under $1,000) is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and fines up to $500. Grand Larceny (property $1,000 or more) is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison. If the theft involves a vehicle, the penalties and charges differ under Oklahoma's separate auto theft statutes.
A theft conviction — even a misdemeanor — can have lasting consequences for employment, professional licensing, and housing applications. I work aggressively to protect my clients' records and pursue the best possible outcome, including deferred sentences that may qualify for expungement.
Property Crime Offenses in Oklahoma
Larceny & Shoplifting
+Larceny is the unlawful taking and carrying away of property belonging to another person with the intent to permanently deprive. In Oklahoma, the classification depends on value: under $1,000 is petit larceny (misdemeanor), and $1,000 or more is grand larceny (felony).
Shoplifting is prosecuted under the same larceny statutes. Retailers in Oklahoma can also pursue civil recovery — a separate demand for damages — in addition to criminal charges. I represent clients facing both criminal and civil aspects of shoplifting and larceny cases throughout the OKC metro area.
Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can make it difficult to find employment, especially in positions involving money handling, trust, or security clearances. I pursue every available option to protect your record, including deferred sentencing and expungement.
Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle
+Under 47 O.S. § 4-102, unauthorized use of a vehicle is defined as taking or operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent, whether or not you intended to return it. This is a felony carrying up to 2 years in prison. A conviction can also result in license suspension and significantly higher auto insurance premiums.
These cases often involve misunderstandings between friends, family members, or business associates about who had permission to use a vehicle. I work to present the full context and, where possible, negotiate reduced charges.
Receiving or Disposing of a Stolen Vehicle
+It is a crime in Oklahoma to knowingly use, dispose of, or receive a vehicle that has been stolen. If you obtain or dispose of a vehicle that you knew or should have known was stolen, you can be charged with a felony carrying up to 2 years in prison.
The key element the prosecution must prove is knowledge — that you knew or had reason to know the vehicle was stolen. I challenge this element when the evidence is weak or circumstantial.
Burglary & Robbery
+Burglary and robbery are among the most serious property-related offenses in Oklahoma. Burglary (entering a building with intent to commit a crime) is classified in two degrees: second-degree burglary carries up to 7 years; first-degree burglary (occupied dwelling) carries up to 20 years.
Robbery (taking property from a person by force or intimidation) is a felony carrying up to 10 years. Armed robbery or robbery with a dangerous weapon carries even harsher penalties. If you are facing either charge, experienced legal representation is critical. See also assault and battery defense for related violent crime charges.
Common Questions About Theft Charges in Oklahoma
What is the felony theft threshold in Oklahoma?
Since State Question 780, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is a felony (grand larceny). Theft under $1,000 is a misdemeanor (petit larceny).
Can a shoplifting charge be expunged?
Yes. If the case was dismissed, you were acquitted, or you completed a deferred sentence, shoplifting charges may be eligible for expungement in Oklahoma.
What is the penalty for first-time grand larceny?
A first-offense grand larceny conviction in Oklahoma carries up to 5 years in prison. However, with effective representation, first-time offenders may qualify for deferred sentencing or reduced charges.
Can I be charged with theft if I intended to return the item?
Larceny requires intent to permanently deprive. If you can demonstrate you intended to return the property, this may be a valid defense. However, the prosecution can argue intent from the circumstances — an experienced attorney is critical.