Felony theft charges in Thornton and throughout Adams County, Colorado involve allegations that someone's property or personal items were stolen. When the value of the goods, items, or belongings reaches or exceeds $2K, the charge becomes a felony. Acts of pick-pocketing and stealing from someone with a disability or the elderly are also a felony, regardless of the value of the property itself. When someone is accused of felony theft in Thornton, Commerce City, or Brighton, it is essential that they exercise their right to remain silent when law enforcement starts asking questions either before an arrest or in custody. Next, contact an experienced theft lawyer to discuss your case, answer questions, and consider next steps in your defense.

Adams County Felony Theft Law

Adams County's felony theft law prohibits several specific acts of larceny. CRS 18-4-401 defines the elements of theft throughout Thornton, Commerce City, and Brighton. Law enforcement will pursue a theft charge if they believe you:

• knowingly obtained, retained, or exercised control,
• over something of value of another,
• without authorization or by threat or deception

The statute also states several other items that address a defendant's intent behind the theft and the actions taken with the property after the theft. Many felony theft cases include actions taken where the alleged victim is permanently deprived of the use or benefit of the property stolen. This can be done by hiding the property taken, refusing to return it, or abandoning the item(s) altogether.

Felony Theft Sentencing in Colorado

The specific facts of each felony theft case determine the consequences of a conviction. The property's value and the manner in which it was taken can have a massive impact on ramifications. Felony theft under $20K can result in:

• a prison sentence of 1 - 3 years,
• fines of $1K - $100K,
• a year or two of parole

However, as that value figure rises, so do the consequences. Defendants in cases involving pricey thefts face several years in prison, high fine amounts, and even longer parole periods. Thefts against those with a disability or the elderly often fall in this stricter sentencing range as well.

Thornton Theft Attorney

There is a great deal on the line for those accused of felony theft in Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, or Fort Collins. It is important to note, just because you've been charged doesn't mean you're guilty. Perhaps we can show you were the only owner of property, you didn't knowingly take the item, or there was police misconduct.

Contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation with one of our determined criminal defense attorneys. We will carefully examine your case, answer your questions, and outline next steps in your defense. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those accused of theft throughout Colorado.

Don't talk to the police about a theft charge - talk to us. 303-830-0880

Photo by Sora Shimazaki