Stolen Property

(206) 467-3190
Burg & Lantz: WA Theft Defense
Burg & Lantz: WA Theft Defense

Give Us A Call: 206-467-3190

We have helped many people who are in a similar situation to you fight their charges.
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Washington Stolen Property Crimes

Possession of stolen property is also a Washington crime. The laws governing Washington possession of stolen property crimes can be found in the Revised Code of Washington at RCW 9A.56.

In Washington possession of stolen property means to "receive, retain,  possess, conceal, or dispose of stolen property knowing that it has been  stolen."  RCW 9A.56.140(1).

The  fact that the person who stole the property has not been convicted,  apprehended or identified is not a defense to the Washington crime of  possessing stolen property.

Stolen Property Info:

Possession of Stolen Property crimes in Washington are divided into the following categories:

  • Possessing Stolen Property in the 1st Degree (9A.56.150): A person commits Possession of Stolen Property in the 1st Degree by possessing stolen property that exceeds $5,000 in value.

    Possessing Stolen Property in the 1st Degree is a Class B Felony  punishable by a maximum of 10 years in jail and a $20,000 fine.  Actual  penalties for a Washington theft crime, however, are determined by the  Sentencing Reform Act, RCW 9.94A and the Washington State Sentencing Guidelines.

  • Possessing Stolen Property in the 2nd Degree (9A.56.160):
    A person commits Possession of Stolen Property in the 2nd Degree when:   
    (a) He or she possesses stolen property, other than a firearm as defined in RCW  9.41.010 or a motor vehicle, which exceeds seven hundred fifty dollars in value but does not exceed five thousand dollars in value; or

    (b) He or she possesses a stolen public record, writing or instrument kept, filed, or deposited according to law; or

    (c) He or she possesses a stolen access device.

    Possessing Stolen Property in the 2nd Degree is a Class C Felony  punishable by a maximum of 5 years in jail and a $10,000 fine.  Actual  penalties for a Washington theft crime, however, are determined by the  Sentencing Reform Act, RCW 9.94A and the Washington State Sentencing Guidelines.

  • Possessing Stolen Property in the 3rd Degree (9A.56.170):
    A person commits the crime of Possession of Stolen Property in the 3rd  Degree by possessing stolen property with a value less than $750.

    Possession of Stolen Property in the 3rd Degree is a Gross Misdemeanor  and punishable by a maximum of 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.  RCW 9.92.020.

Accused of a Theft or Shoplifting Crime
in Washington State?

Give Us A Call: 206-467-3190

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Finally, we will not try to “hard sell” you to hire us. We know choosing an attorney is a big decision and one you must make carefully – not under pressure. Because an effective attorney-client relationship requires a lot of communication and trust, we really only want to represent people who feel comfortable with us and have complete confidence in our abilities. If you don't, then you have the right to an attorney that you do feel would be a better fit.

Thank you for taking the time to look through this web site. Please contact us if you would like to meet and further discuss how we may assist you.

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Burg & Lantz is committed to answering your questions about the theft laws in Washington State.

We offer a Free Initial Consultation and we'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact us today at 206-467-3190 to schedule an appointment.

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