Property crimes can happen through violence, threats, coercion or by trickery. For cases in which a person is accused of theft involving a victim 65 or older, the penalties are more severe than they are if the crime involved a younger individual. Being aware of the law and the potential consequences is integral to forging a viable defense.
The value of what was stolen is key along with the victim’s age
The knowledge of the victim’s age is a fundamental part of the case. Those charged with theft of a person in that age range who are also found to have known they were 65 or older will be charged and penalized based on the value of what was stolen.
When property is stolen and charges are filed, the value is essential to the case and the possible ramifications like jail time and fines. If the property is worth more than $1,000, the person charged and convicted is expected to pay restitution. They must also need to perform 500 hours of community service.
If it was valued of at least $50,000, it is a first-degree felony, they can be incarcerated for up to 30 years and fined $10,000. For property that was valued at $10,000 but less than $50,000, it will be a second-degree felony, the person can be incarcerated for up to 15 years and fined as much as $10,000.
In cases where the value was at least $300 but less than $10,000, it is a third-degree felony. There can be up to five years’ incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000.
Those accused of crimes against the elderly have options
When a person is charged with theft, there are criminal, personal and professional challenges they will need to face. Gauging the circumstances is key. It could have been due to a misunderstanding. There might be plea agreements available.
Given the potential prison time, large fines and negative perception that comes with being accused of crimes against the elderly, it is imperative to know the value of a strong criminal defense.