Property Crimes

Property crimes are offenses where another person's property is stolen, damaged, or otherwise harmed.

More information on common property crimes in SC can be found on our website:

• Breach of Trust with Fraudulent Intent
• Burglary
• Larceny and Receiving or Possession of Stolen Goods
• Arson
• Trespass After Notice
• Shoplifting
• Forgery and Financial Identity Crimes
• Possession of Stolen Vehicle

Property crimes cases in SC are different from other types of cases because:

• They are often based on the dollar value of the property that was stolen or damaged;
• They will often involve restitution to replace or repair the damaged property;
• They typically have an alleged victim (who may be angry); and
• Many property crimes can be enhanced based on prior offenses.

Some SC property crimes and the potential penalties for them are categorized based on the dollar value of the alleged harm.

For example, larceny, shoplifting, or possession of stolen goods are split into three categories:

• Petit larceny, - less than $2000 (up to 30 days in jail);
• Grand larceny – greater than $2000 (up to five years in prison); and
• Grand larceny – greater than $10,000 (up to ten years in prison).

The potential defenses in these cases can vary widely depending on the charge, the facts of your case, and the creativity of your attorney.

In any property case, the alleged victim may be claiming restitution, and, if you are convicted or if you enter a plea, restitution may be ordered by the Court.

If the restitution that is being claimed is unreasonable or simply unsupported by the evidence, you can request a restitution hearing and require them to prove the dollar amount that they are claiming – you have the right to a restitution hearing whether you plead guilty or take your case to trial.

If you are charged with a committing a property crime that is based on the dollar value of the property, and if you have two or more similar property crime convictions on your record, your charges can be “enhanced” to a felony that carries up to ten years in prison under SC’s property crime enhancement statute.

Lacey Thompson practices exclusively in the area of criminal defense, including property crimes, in SC courts.

If you are charged with any type of property crime, you need an experienced defense lawyer who knows SC’s criminal courts, prosecutors, and the special considerations in property crime cases. Call the Thompson & Hiller Defense Firm now at (843) 444-6122 or contact us online for a free consultation to discuss your options.