Trafficking stolen property will lead to dire consequences. It does not matter whether you sold the stolen property knowingly or unknowingly. By Arizona state law, you might face a jail sentence if you attempt to profit from the stolen property. Depending on the type of felony you committed, you can face from two to 10 years in prison.
Criminal Defense Attorney Tucson | Hernandez & Hamilton confirms that any accusation of trafficking stolen goods is a serious matter that requires fast intervention. Such charges will affect your criminal record and your future.
Although there are some chances that the judge might decide to drop the charges, this is not always the case. Trafficking stolen property is considered a felony by state law. You need the best defense team you can find to ensure that you receive a lower sentence. Your circumstances have a great influence on the outcome of your trial. Suppose you were recently arrested for trafficking stolen goods. In that case, the following information about the type of charges and penalties you might face may be helpful to you.
Types of Charges for Stolen Property Traffick
If you get caught trafficking stolen property, you will receive a criminal charge. If you recklessly sold stolen goods, the court will consider that you were reckless about ensuring whether the property was stolen or not. Depending on your circumstances, the court can determine if you willingly disregarded the possibility that the individual selling the property has stolen it.
If you acquired the stolen property at a significantly lower price than market value or purchased it outside business hours, the court might believe that you were aware you were selling it. If you are accused of first-degree trafficking, you are in an even more serious predicament. Although this type of charge is less frequent, it usually involves the presumption that you have an involvement in the theft.
Possible Penalties for Trafficking Stolen Goods
Depending on your circumstances, the court will determine the penalties that apply to your case. If the judge rules that you were knowingly trafficking stolen property, you are facing a class 2 felony. The minimum sentence is three years in state prison, five years presumptive, and 12 years as an aggravated term.
On the other hand, if the judge rules that you were selling stolen goods unknowingly, your charge becomes a class 3 felony. The minimum jail sentence is two years, 3.5 years presumptive, and 8.75 years as an aggravated term. You might receive probation in both cases, but your circumstances play an essential role in the ruling.
Seek Expert Legal Advice
Stolen property trafficking is a serious charge. To ensure that your case is properly taken care of, you must seek legal advice from a skilled and highly qualified lawyer to protect you and to help you achieve a more lenient outcome. A criminal defense attorney knows the criminal justice system and can help you understand your circumstances. If you contact your attorney as soon as possible, you have a better chance of receiving a lesser sentence.
They will review your case and determine if there is a basis for the charges. In a best-case scenario, they can help you get the charges dismissed or dropped. Otherwise, a lawyer will do everything to reduce your sentence as much as possible. Dealing with felony charges is challenging, and you need all the help you can get to go through this period with minimum consequences. If you are facing theft charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan or any other courthouse, call Shawn today at 616-438-6719.