Larceny

2004 UCR larceny distribution

Larceny is a crime involving the unlawful taking of the personal property of another person or business. It is a form of theft and is one of the most common offenses prosecuted in criminal courts. Larceny can range from petty theft, such as shoplifting small items, to grand theft, involving the theft of significant property or amounts of money. The specific definitions, classifications, and penalties for larceny vary widely among different jurisdictions.

Definition

Larceny is defined by the act of unlawfully taking property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. Unlike robbery, which involves force or intimidation, larceny is typically committed without the use or threat of force against a person. The key elements that constitute larceny include the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's property without consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property.

Types of Larceny

Larceny can be classified into two main types: petit larceny and grand larceny. The classification depends on the value of the property stolen, with thresholds varying by jurisdiction.

• Petit Larceny: Often referred to as petty theft, involves the theft of property below a certain value threshold. This is generally considered a misdemeanor offense.

• Grand Larceny: Involves the theft of property above a certain value threshold and is considered a felony. The exact value that separates petit from grand larceny varies by jurisdiction.

Legal Penalties

The penalties for larceny depend on the severity of the crime and the value of the property stolen. Penalties can range from fines and restitution to imprisonment. For petit larceny, penalties typically include small fines or short jail sentences. Grand larceny, being a more serious offense, can result in significant fines, longer prison sentences, and a permanent criminal record.

Defenses to Larceny

Several defenses can be raised in a larceny case, including but not limited to:

• Claim of Right: The defendant believed they had a right to the property.
• Consent: The owner of the property consented to the defendant taking the property.
• Intoxication: The defendant was intoxicated and did not have the intent to steal.
• Return of Property: Attempting to return the property before being charged with larceny, although this does not necessarily absolve the defendant of guilt.

Prevention and Social Impact

Preventing larceny involves both law enforcement efforts and community awareness. Retailers, for example, may use surveillance cameras, security tags, and trained personnel to deter shoplifting. The social impact of larceny can be significant, contributing to higher retail prices, increased insurance premiums, and a general sense of insecurity in communities.