Theft, Robbery, and Burglary Charges in Wisconsin

 Posted on March 20,2019 in Criminal Defense

Because they are often used interchangeably in conversation, many people think theft, robbery, and burglary are all the same thing. They are actually three rather different charges with various levels of consequences. If you are charged with theft, robbery or burglary, it is important to understand the potential punishments you face for a conviction and to secure experienced legal representation as soon as possible.

Theft Charges

According to Wisconsin law, theft occurs when you intentionally take and use, transfer, conceal, or retain possession of moveable property without the owner’s consent and with the intention of permanently depriving them of that property. Like most states’ theft laws, the punishments for theft in Wisconsin largely depend on the value of the property taken. If the value is not more than $2,500, the charge is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries up to nine months in prison and $10,000 in fines. Penalties for stolen property valued at $2,500 or more can be classified as anywhere from a Class I felony to a Class F felony. This means you could face anywhere from three to 12 years in prison and fines between $10,000 and $25,000.

Robbery Charges

Robbery occurs when a person takes property directly from or in the presence of the owner by using force or by threatening the use of force. Robbery is a Class E felony, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and $50,000 in fines. If you use a deadly weapon while committing robbery, the charge is elevated to a Class C felony, which carries up to 40 years in prison and $100,000 in fines.

Burglary Charges

Burglary occurs when a person intentionally enters a building, dwelling, boat, or motorhome without the owner’s permission, with the intent to steal property or commit a felony. Burglary is classified as a Class F felony, which carries up to 12 years in prison and $25,000 in fines. If a person commits a burglary with a dangerous weapon, commits battery upon a person, or there is an individual present, the crime is elevated to a Class E felony, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and $50,000 in fines.

A Waukesha County Theft Lawyer Can Help

The consequences that come with each of the aforementioned crimes can impact the rest of your life. At the Bucher Law Group, LLC, we will aggressively defend you against any allegation. Our skilled Delafield theft criminal defense lawyers have successfully represented Wisconsin residents for over a decade. Call us at 262-303-4916 to schedule a free consultation. 

Sources:

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/943/III/20

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/943/III/32

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/943/II/10