What Is Grand Larceny: New Mexico Laws Explained
A theft conviction can negatively affect your reputation and make anyone who runs your background believe you are untrustworthy. The last thing you want is for prospective employers to disqualify you from a position because you have a theft conviction on your criminal record. The best way to avoid a theft conviction is by hiring a criminal defense lawyer to review the facts of your case and prepare a strategy to demonstrate your innocence. A member of our team will listen to your side of the story and fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
Contact a grand larceny attorney at New Mexico Criminal Law Offices today to schedule a free initial consultation.
What Is Grand Larceny in New Mexico?
New Mexico law defines larceny as stealing anything of value that belongs to another person. The state’s broad definition of larceny means other offenses may more accurately describe other theft crimes. For example, state law defines shoplifting as wilfully committing one of the following acts:
- Taking possession of a store’s merchandise with the intent to convert it without paying for it;
- Concealing a store’s merchandise with the intent to convert it without paying for it;
- Altering a label, price tag, or marking upon a piece of merchandise with the intent to deprive the retailer of all or some of its value; or
- Transferring merchandise from the container in or on which it is displayed to another container with the intent to deprive the retailer of all or some of its value.
Another form of larceny is identity theft, which occurs when someone fraudulently uses another person’s identifying information to open accounts, or obtain credit, services, merchandise, or other things of value. New Mexico does not distinguish grand larceny vs grand theft.
Penalties for Grand Larceny
The penalties for theft crimes in New Mexico vary based on the value of the property stolen. If the stolen property is valued at $250 or less, the charge is considered a petty misdemeanor. A petty misdemeanor is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
If the stolen property is valued at more than $250 but less than $500, the charge is considered a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is punishable by between six months and one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
If the stolen property is valued at more than $500 but less than $2,500 is considered a fourth-degree felony. A fourth-degree felony is punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. If the stolen property is valued at more than $2,500 but less than $20,000 is considered a third-degree felony. A third-degree felony is punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. If the stolen property is valued is considered a second-degree felony. A second-degree felony is punishable by up to nine years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Defenses to Larceny Charges in New Mexico
A legal defense can create doubt surrounding an element of the grand larceny charge. If the prosecution is unable to prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, we can help you advocate to have your charges lessened or dismissed. Potential legal defenses available for a grand larceny charge include:
- You co-own the property that you were accused of stealing;
- You did not have the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the stolen property;;
- The item lacks any value; or
- The item was voluntarily abandoned before you took it.
Reach out to New Mexico Criminal Law Offices today to review your case and see if these legal defenses apply to your case.
What Is Considered Grand Larceny in New Mexico? Contact New Mexico Criminal Law Offices Today to Find Out
Our team at New Mexico Criminal Law Offices has over two decades of combined experience assisting clients with grand larceny charges. Our firm focuses solely on criminal defense cases, dedicating all of our time to defending the rights of those facing criminal accusations. Remember, hiring a criminal defense lawyer can help prepare a defense strategy that offers you the best opportunity to get your charges reduced or dismissed. An attorney can assist your case by:
- Locating witnesses to testify on your behalf;
- Determining if a legal defense applies to your case; and
- Negotiating with the district attorney to secure a favorable plea agreement.
When your freedom is at stake, you cannot afford to hire an inexperienced attorney to represent your case. Contact our office today to speak to an experienced theft lawyer.