In South Carolina, theft is known as “larceny,” which means intentionally stealing money and another property of value that belongs to another person in order to deprive him/her of the property. There are two types of larceny offenses in the state: petit (petty) larceny and grand larceny.
If a person commits theft involving property worth up to $2,000, then it is considered petit larceny. This type of theft is the least serious of the two offenses and considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a jail term of up to 30 days and a maximum fine of $1,000.
On the other hand, grand larceny is a felony offense. If grand theft involves stealing property worth more than $2,000 but less than $10,000, the offense is a Class F felony, which carries a maximum prison term of five years and a fine determined by the court. If grand theft involves stealing property worth more than $10,000, the offense is a Class E felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to ten (10) years and a fine determined by the court.
Furthermore, if a person commits shoplifting in South Carolina, he/she could be held liable in civil court by the store owner or owner of the item stolen. If the shoplifting offense was committed by a minor, then the store or item owner can sue the parents or guardians of the child.
If a person has previously been convicted of a prior misdemeanor or felony offense, a new theft charge will result in harsher penalties when it comes to sentencing.
If you or a loved one has been charged with larceny or any other theft crime in Lexington, contact the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC at (803) 359-3301 for a free initial consultation. Serving clients throughout South Carolina since 2004.