Theft crimes are some of the most common criminal charges pursued in Missouri. People face criminal charges if they steal directly from another person or from a business. The charges and penalties they face typically reflect the details of the situation leading to their arrest.

Prosecutors have quite a bit of discretion when it comes to enforcing laws about theft and property rights in Missouri. For example, prosecutors can pursue more serious charges in cases involving weapons and injuries to individuals.

They also have the option of pursuing felony theft charges in a number of different situations. Defendants who understand what separates a misdemeanor theft offense from a felony theft offense can use that information when planning a defense strategy.

What constitutes misdemeanor theft?

Missouri technically has two categories of misdemeanor theft. The lowest category involves property worth less than $150 and no major aggravating factors. However, misdemeanor theft charges are the standard in cases involving assets worth less than $750 in total. The class of the misdemeanor increases if the value of the assets is above $150. It can increase to a felony charge if the total value of the property is over $750.

There are certain exceptions for specific types of property. Missouri allows for enhanced charges in cases involving certain types of assets. The effect of certain types of property can automatically result in a felony charge instead of a misdemeanor theft charge.

The theft of anhydrous ammonia, a substance associated with illegal drug production, typically results in felony charges. The theft of a vehicle is a felony offense, regardless of whether it is a motor vehicle, an aircraft or a watercraft. It is also a felony to steal liquid nitrogen, farming equipment, livestock or assets owned by financial organizations.

Other assets that can lead to felony theft charges include:

• firearms
• wills
• deeds
• explosives
• controlled substances

Anyone with three or more theft-related convictions from within the last decade is also at risk of felony theft charges, regardless of the type of property or its value.

Individuals who understand Missouri’s unique theft statutes can analyze property crime allegations made by the state and plan an appropriate response. Securing the right support can increase the chances of successfully defending against pending theft charges.