Property crimes are pretty common crimes throughout the D.C./Virginia metro area. These crimes can deal with tangible items as well as intangible items. The scope of penalties ranges as widely as the span of crimes categorized as property offenses.
If you have been charged with a property crime, you need a skilled property crimes defense attorney to guide you through the process, uphold your rights, and defend against the allegations. At S.L. England, PLLC, we represent clients throughout Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia who have been accused of property crimes. Contact us today to learn more about our approach to criminal defense and how we may help you in your unique situation.
What Constitutes a Property Crime in Virginia and the District of Columbia?
Property crimes involve one person violating or trespassing on someone else's property rights or property. These types of crimes range from simple theft to white collar crimes and from misdemeanors to felonies.
Examples of the most common property crimes include:
- theft (e.g., shoplifting)
- petit larceny
- grand larceny
- vandalism
- robbery
- burglary
- fraud
- trespassing
- destruction of property
- receiving stolen goods
- arson.
As mentioned, the property that is the subject of the crime can be tangible or intangible. Examples include:
- a structure (e.g., a house, barn, office)
- jewelry
- vehicles
- electronics (e.g., phones, TVs, computers)
- money
- an identity
- credit cards
- health insurance benefits
- workers' comp insurance benefits.
What Penalties Can You Expect if Convicted of a Virginia or D.C. Property Crime?
A conviction of a property crime can result in a wide range of penalties – it all depends largely on the exact offense, the value of the property, and whether there are any prior convictions or aggravating circumstances.
For any conviction, however, you can anticipate the possibility of fines and jail time for misdemeanors and prison time for felonies.
Apart from court-ordered sentencing, you can also face collateral consequences. A conviction leads to a criminal record, and property crimes are especially problematic for persons in certain fields of employment, like the financial sector or the retail sector. You can face difficulty finding or maintaining a job. You can face other difficulties, too, like finding good housing or obtaining loans.
How are Property Crimes Defended in the D.C./Virginia Metro Area?
Property crimes are defended with a valid defense – if one is available – and with a strong defense strategy. A good property crimes attorney will investigate the case and incorporate all viable defenses and execute a strategy that renders the best possible outcome for you.
Possible defenses include:
- mistake of fact
- absence of requisite mental state
- duress
- violation of constitutional rights.
A defense strategy can include but is not limited to:
- filing appropriate motions, like a motion to suppress evidence (for a violation of the Fourth Amendment) or a motion to dismiss;
- challenging evidence submitted by the State;
- cross-examining witnesses;
- impeaching witnesses;
- overall creating doubt.
The prosecutor – regardless of which jurisdiction (D.C. or Virginia) – must prove the elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. When proof of an element is missing, you cannot be convicted of the charge.
S.L. England will do what it takes to cast doubt and challenge the State to better you chances of an acquittal or reduced sentencing.
Contact a Seasoned Property Crimes Defense Attorney Representing the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia Today
Property Crimes defense attorney S.L. England represents clients in D.C. and Virginia. Contact his law office to get started on your defense today.
