Larceny

Larceny – Theft

(Petit Larceny or Grand Larceny)

Larceny can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the property involved. Petit larceny is classified as a misdemeanor and carries less severe penalties than grand larceny, which is a felony. However, multiple petit larceny convictions over time may influence the severity of future charges. Ted Asbury is an experienced theft crime attorney who can represent individuals charged with petit larceny or other theft-related offenses.

Definition of Larceny in Virginia

In Virginia, larceny is defined as the unlawful taking of another person’s personal property by trespass, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. Larceny is divided into two categories based on the value of the stolen property:

Grand Larceny:
Grand larceny occurs when a person takes property valued at more
than $1,000. It is classified as a felony.

Petit Larceny:
Petit larceny occurs when a person takes property valued at less
than $1,000. It is classified as a misdemeanor.

Penalties for Larceny

Under Virginia Code § 16.1-253.4, a person violates a protective order when they knowingly disobey the terms set by the court. Violations can encompass a wide range of actions, depending on the specific conditions outlined in the order. Common examples include:

Contacting the protected person via phone, text, email, or social media.
Visiting the protected person’s home, workplace, or school.
Committing or threatening an act of violence.
Failing to leave a shared residence when ordered to do so.
Attempting to send messages through third parties.

Protective orders become enforceable as soon as they are served. Even brief or seemingly harmless contact can result in criminal charges.

Petit Larceny:

If convicted of petit larceny, you may face:

Up to 12 months of incarceration.
A fine of up to $2,500.
Grand Larceny:

If convicted of grand larceny, you may face:

Up to 20 years in prison.
A fine of up to $2,500.

In addition to incarceration and fines, a judge may order restitution. Restitution requires the defendant to reimburse the victim for the value of the stolen property.