Legal Help for UPenn Students Charged with Theft

Theft charges can feel frightening and stressful, especially for university students who also have to worry about how the situation might affect their education. If you attend the University of Pennsylvania and find yourself in this position, it’s important to move quickly and get advice from an experienced attorney who handles theft cases for UPenn students.

At Logue Law Group, we know what’s on the line, and we’re prepared to build the strong defense you deserve. We’re proud of our deep experience with a wide range of complicated criminal matters, and we’re ready to put that knowledge to work for you. For a free review of your case, contact us at 412.387.6901 or through our online form.

Making Sense of Pennsylvania Theft Charges

In Pennsylvania, theft covers several different offenses, and each one has its own unique elements. One of these is “theft by unlawful taking,” which means taking unauthorized control over property that belongs to someone else. This applies to both physical items and property interests, such as real estate. If you’re confused by these distinctions, a knowledgeable New Castle criminal lawyer can walk you through them.

Another type is “theft by deception,” which involves obtaining property through lies or by creating a false impression about legal matters to sway the victim’s choices. Situations that may fall under this category include:

• Blocking access to information that could shape a person’s decision in a transaction
• Profiting from the victim’s trust in false information spread by the offender

There’s also “theft by extortion,” where someone obtains property by using threats that could expose the victim to criminal charges or public shame. Examples include:

• Threatening criminal behavior to force someone to hand over property
• Misusing an official role to take away someone’s property
• Causing harmful action that offers no gain to the offender

Keep in mind that these examples are only a portion of all possible theft offenses, which also include theft of services or property received by mistake. A skilled New Castle DUI attorney can explain how these charges may overlap with other criminal matters.

To better understand these details and the legal consequences that can follow a theft conviction, keep reading and speak with a capable New Castle criminal lawyer.

What UPenn Students Face if Convicted of Theft

The criminal penalties for theft can vary quite a bit, and they depend largely on how much the stolen property is worth. Courts generally look at the market value or the replacement cost to decide how serious the charge will be.

Here’s a look at the possible consequences based on the value of the property taken:

• Stolen property worth more than $2,000, or any vehicle, counts as a third-degree felony, which carries up to seven years in prison and $15,000 in fines.
• A second-degree felony applies to situations such as stealing during a disaster, illegally obtaining a firearm, or theft involving property worth between $100,000 and $500,000, with penalties reaching up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 in fines.
• Theft of property valued at $500,000 or more is treated as a first-degree felony, which can mean up to 20 years behind bars and $25,000 in fines.

In certain cases, theft can be charged as a misdemeanor—particularly when the property’s value falls between $50 and $200. Even then, the penalty for a first-degree misdemeanor in Pennsylvania can reach a maximum of five years in prison. An experienced New Castle theft defense attorney can help you understand exactly what you’re up against.

A theft arrest will most likely trigger a disciplinary response from your university as well. Our group is ready not only to prepare you for your criminal case but also to support you during university hearings. With serious accusations like theft, the fallout could include the loss of university privileges or even expulsion. It’s essential to reach out to a dependable New Castle DUI attorney early so you can build an effective strategy for your disciplinary hearing.

New Castle Legal Professional for UPenn Students Handling Theft Cases

Skilled Legal Support for University of Pennsylvania Students Accused of Theft

Facing theft charges can be overwhelming. Our capable New Castle criminal lawyer, who focuses on defending college students, is here to guide you every step of the way.

Sean Logue, a committed attorney with Logue Law Group, understands the heavy pressure that comes with criminal accusations at UPenn, and he’s ready to stand by your side.

Take advantage of a free consultation to explore your legal options with our team. Contact Sean Logue’s Logue Law Group at 412.387.6901.