Penalties for theft crimes can differ depending on the circumstances of the case and the state that you are in. Crimes of theft can result in the following consequences:
Prison Sentences
If you are charged with a felony you are likely to serve a prison sentence for a number of years. First-time offenders that have committed a misdemeanor offense can serve a prison sentence that ranges from several months or two to three years. However, the court can choose not to impose a prison sentence. A repeat offender can get a maximum prison sentence of 20 years or more.
Court Fines
Even for a first-time theft conviction, you can pay a fine anywhere from $1,000 to as high as $150,000 depending on the severity of the crime.
Restitution
Aside from being punished for the crime you have committed the court can require an individual to pay the owner back for the loss of property.
Probation
An offender can be sentenced to probation as a result of a theft crime. There are a set of terms and regulations that you may be required to abide by for a period of either 12 months or more. During probation, you may need to meet with your probation officer, have a job, pay your child support, and avoid breaking laws. Violating the terms of the probation can result in harsh penalties such as your probation sentence being increased or revoked which can result in an individual being served with additional penalties, jail time, or paying additional fines.