Larceny

The Virginia Larceny statute is a catchall one encompassing a variety of offenses that are separate and distinct, but are punished in the same manner. Larceny is simply understood as the taking of property of another, without permission, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of possession of that property.

Larceny offenses can be charged as felonies or misdemeanors. Felonies are charged when the total dollar amount taken exceeds $200. The Government will charge larceny as a misdemeanor when the value is lower than that amount.

Under Virginia law, offenses such as concealing good, attempting or changing price tags, embezzlement, credit card theft or fraud, and others are treated as larcenies. As stated above, the dollar amount of the alleged taken property will determine whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or felony.

Larceny charges usually arise based upon claims made employees or other citizens that they witnessed the accused wrongfully taking possession of an item. Law enforcement officers usually have no role in Larceny charges, besides making the arrest based upon the word of the alleged victim or witness. There are several defenses that can be raised on behalf of an individual facing Larceny charges. Often times, the facts and circumstances of each particular case can present ample opportunities to challenge the Commonwealth’s evidence and present an effective defense.

The attorneys at The Simms Firm, PLC have extensive experience in successfully resolving Larceny charges. Our legal team is equipped to challenge the Government’s evidence, so that we can secure the best possible outcome for our clients. Despite the recovery of the alleged stolen items, our attorneys work for our clients and aggressively seek alternatives to convictions.