When is Theft a Felony in Wisconsin?
If the state of Wisconsin convicts you of a theft charge, you could be facing a misdemeanor or a felony. So when is theft a felony? Here’s what you need to know.
When is Theft a Felony in Wisconsin?
The state of Wisconsin bases its theft charges on the value of the stolen property. Here’s a quick look at how the property’s value affects the charges:
- If the property has a value of $2,501 to $5,000, the charge will be for a Class I felony
- If the property has a value of $5,001 to $10,000, the charge will be for a Class H felony
- If the property has a value of $10,000 or more, the charge will be for a Class G felony
Sometimes the nature of the property affects the charge you’re facing, too. For example, if you’re accused of stealing a domestic animal or a firearm, it’s a Class H felony (regardless of the monetary value of either).
Even where you committed a theft can affect the charge. You can be charged with a Class H felony if you stole something from another’s person (meaning that they were holding or carrying the item when you took it), a corpse, a patient or resident of a certain facility or a vulnerable adult. It’s also a Class H felony to steal property that was moved from a building that was destroyed or unoccupied because of a disaster, riot, bombing or battle.
Related: What to know if you’re charged with theft
How Wisconsin Law Defines Theft
A jury can convict you of theft in Wisconsin if:
- You intentionally took and carried away, or used, transferred, concealed or retained possession of someone else’s property
- The property’s owner didn’t consent to you doing so
- You knew that the owner didn’t consent
- You intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property
When Theft is a Felony: Possible Penalties
Check out the possible penalties for felony theft in Wisconsin.
- If you’re convicted of a Class I felony, in which the property is valued at $2,501 to $5,000, you could spend up to a year and a half in prison with up to 2 years of extended supervision.
- If you’re convicted of a Class H felony, in which the property is valued between $5,001 and $10,000, or if it was a domestic animal or firearm, you could spend up to 3 years in prison with 3 years of extended supervision.
- If you’re convicted of a Class G felony, in which the property is worth more than $10,000, you could spend 5 years in prison with 5 years of extended supervision.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About When Theft is a Felony in Wisconsin?
If you’re charged with theft – regardless of whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony – you may want to talk to an attorney about your case. Having a theft conviction on your record can seriously impact your future, so it’s best to inform yourself before you go to court.
Call us at 414-383-6700 now to talk to an attorney. We’ll answer your questions, explain the possible penalties you’re facing and start building a strategy that gets you the best possible outcome.