Being accused of committing a property crime is a very serious assertion. If you have recently been charged with committing a property crime, it is important to get in contact with a qualified and experienced criminal defense attorney. I, Zachary Holbrook, am a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney located in Ogden, Utah. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having to build a case to defend yourself in Utah, I am happy to be of assistance. Continue reading to learn more about several different types of property crime.

What Is A Property Crime?

Before the different types of property crime can be discussed, we must first describe what a property crime is. A property crime involves a person’s belongings being stolen or destroyed without them having any indication that the crime would happen. As in, the perpetrator of the crime would not typically threaten the person they plan to commit the crime against beforehand. There are several different types of property crime including arson, theft, vandalism, and burglary.

Types Of Property Crimes

Arson

Arson has to do with the destruction of property by means of fire or explosives. Typically the term “arson” refers to the burning or charring of a building, but it could also refer to setting fire to other forms of property such as vehicles, crops, or forests. A fire can only be considered arson if the individual who set fire to the property did it intentionally or maliciously. Arson includes setting fire to your own property with the intention of committing insurance fraud or setting fire to property that belongs to another person. The severity of an Arson charge can be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on factors such as the damage caused and if someone’s life was endangered.

Theft

Theft is the crime of taking someone else’s property without their consent or permission. Theft can be taking both tangible and intangible property. Theft is also sometimes referred to as larceny. Within the context of theft, there are many different levels of severity, from petty theft all the way up to motor vehicle theft.

In Utah, petty theft (or theft in which the property stolen was less than $500) is considered a Class B Misdemeanor. If the value of the property stolen is between $500-$1499, then it would be a Class A Misdemeanor. Finally, if the value of the stolen property is $1500 or more or was a firearm or operable motor vehicle, then the severity is increased to a felony (the degree depends on the value and what was stolen).

Vandalism

Criminal mischief is a type of property crime in Utah typically referred to as vandalism. Vandalism includes any act that was conducted deliberately to destroy a piece of public or private property. Acts of vandalism include graffiti, smashing lights, breaking windows, removing wording or signage, or any other act that defaces a property. The severity of a vandalism charge can be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on factors such as the damage caused and if someone’s life was endangered.

Burglary

Another type of property crime, burglary is the act of entering a building (or remaining in a building unlawfully) with the intent to commit a felony, theft, lewdness, sexual battery, or voyeurism. Burglary is a Third Degree Felony unless it is committed where someone resides, then it becomes a Second Degree Felony.

Do You Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you have been accused of committing a property crime, it is important to get in contact with a criminal defense attorney. I, Zachary Holbrook, am experienced with property crime cases and would be more than happy to help you build a case. For a case review or to receive further information regarding property crimes, feel free to reach out to me today.