Grand Larceny vs. Grand Theft
Nov. 21, 2023
We know how stressful and overwhelming it can be when you or a loved one is facing charges of Grand Larceny or Grand Theft in Maryland. You're probably grappling with a lot of uncertainty and questions about what's to come. It's our mission to guide you through this challenging time, offering you the information and support you need to navigate the legal landscape.
At Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC, we're more than just a law firm. We're a team of dedicated attorneys who have a wealth of experience in criminal defense. Over the years, we've successfully represented numerous clients facing charges of Grand Larceny and Grand Theft across Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Howard County, and Fredrick County. With our knowledge and commitment, we strive to provide the best possible defense for your case and help you towards the most favorable outcome.
What Is Grand Larceny in Maryland?
The differences between Grand Larceny and Grand Theft in Maryland can be a bit confusing. Both involve theft offenses, but they're classified differently based on the value of the stolen goods or services.
In Maryland, Grand Larceny generally involves high-value thefts. By law, this typically means stealing property or services worth $1,500 or more. It's considered a felony theft, and the penalties can be quite severe. If convicted, you could face up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000, depending on the value of the stolen property or services.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny
In Maryland, the classification of theft offenses depends mostly on the value of the stolen goods or services. The severity of the punishment also follows suit. The potential penalties for Grand Larceny in Maryland include the following felony charges:
If the stolen property or services are worth at least $1,500 but less than $25,000, the maximum punishment is:
Up to five years in prison
A fine of up to $10,000
If the stolen property or services are valued between $25,000 and $100,000, the penalties increase to:
A maximum of ten years in prison
A fine of up to $15,000
For the highest level of felony theft, involving stolen property or services worth $100,000 or more, the penalties become even more severe:
Up to 20 years in prison
A fine of up to $25,000
It's crucial to understand that these are maximum penalties, and the actual sentence will depend on various factors such as prior convictions, the circumstances of the theft, and more.
What Is Grand Theft?
On the other hand, Grand Theft is a broader term that includes a range of prohibited conduct. This could involve taking someone else's property, possessing stolen property, using deception to control property, obtaining services without paying for them, and shoplifting. The classification of Grand Theft as a misdemeanor or felony depends on the value of the stolen property or services.
For instance, if the property or services are worth less than $100, it's considered a misdemeanor theft with penalties including imprisonment for up to 90 days and a fine of up to $500. If the value is at least $100 but less than $1,500, it's a higher-level misdemeanor theft, with potential penalties of up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $500.
Potential Penalties for Grand Theft
The potential penalties for Grand Theft in Maryland law can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of the stolen property or services:
Misdemeanor Theft:
For property or services valued less than $100, it's considered a misdemeanor theft, punishable by up to 90 days in prison and a fine of up to $500.
If the value is at least $100 but less than $1,500, it's a higher-level misdemeanor theft, with potential penalties including imprisonment for up to six months and a fine of up to $500.
Felony Theft:
If the stolen property or services are worth at least $1,500 but less than $25,000, the maximum punishment is five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
For property or services valued between $25,000 and $100,000, the penalties increase to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
The most severe level of felony theft, involving stolen property or services worth $100,000 or more, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Remember, these are maximum penalties, and the actual sentence will depend on various factors such as prior convictions, the circumstances of the theft, and more.
Grand Larceny and Grand Theft: Key Distinctions
The main difference between Grand Larceny and Grand Theft lies in the threshold amounts and property values. While both offenses involve theft, Grand Larceny typically concerns higher-value stolen property, often set at $1,500 or more. On the other hand, Grand Theft covers a broader range of theft offenses, including those involving lower-value stolen property.
Potential Defenses & Paths Forward
When it comes to defending against Grand Larceny or Grand Theft charges, there are several common defenses that can be used, including:
Claiming ownership or right of possession
Lack of intent to steal
Consent from the owner
Similarly, for Grand Theft cases, defenses might include:
Mistaken identity or wrongful accusation
Absence of intent to deprive the owner permanently
Return of the stolen property
In addition, challenging the evidence or filing suppression motions can also be effective strategies in certain cases.
Reach Out to Skilled Legal Counsel
Facing charges of Grand Larceny or Grand Theft in Maryland can be a daunting experience. But remember, you don't have to navigate this complex legal process alone. At Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC, we're here to stand by your side, providing the guidance and representation you need during this challenging time. Reach out to us today and let us help you protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.