Theft Crimes in Tennessee

Theft crimes encompass a range of offenses under Tennessee law. Generally, theft occurs when an individual attempts to take possessions of someone else's property or goods without payment or permission. For instance, if you agree to purchase goods from someone but instead run away with them without paying, you have committed theft.

The state of Tennessee also applies the term “theft” to situations involving services. If you hire a person (or company) to retile your bathroom and then refuse to pay for the work once the job is completed, you have committed theft of services. The same applies to anyone skipping out on a restaurant bill or neglecting to check out of a hotel without settling expenses.

Theft crimes can include, but are not limited to:

• Petty Theft and/or Shoplifting (generally applicable to items and goods under $1,000)

• Grand Theft (value of property or services is more than $1,000)

• Automobile Theft (taking a vehicle that does not belong to you)

• Grand Auto Theft (taking a very expensive vehicle or taking a bunch of vehicles that do not belong to you)

• Identity Theft (stealing someone's personal information and using it to make purchases or access services)

Tennessee Felony Classifications A to E

• Class A: Theft over $250,000. Jail sentence of 15 to 60 years and up to $50,000 fine.

• Class B: Theft ranging from $60,000 to $249,999. Jail sentence of 8 to 30 years and up to $25,000 fine.

• Class C: Theft valued between $10,000 to $59,999. Jail sentence of 3 to 15 years and up to $10,000 fine.

• Class D: Theft ranging from the $2,500 to $9,999. Jail sentence of 2 to 12 years and up to a $5,000 fine.

• Class E: Theft valued in the $1,000 to $2,499 range. Additionally, Tennessee law applies Class E felony classifications to the theft of firearms valued under $2,500. Jail sentence of 1 to 6 years and up to a $3,000 fine.

In Tennessee, theft of property at or below $1,000 is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties for this charge can include up to 11 months in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.

Sentencing Alternatives/Enhancements

The specific circumstances of a crime can offer a person accused of theft in Tennessee different options aside from the standard penalties. For example, the prosecution may offer a pretrial diversion program for misdemeanor theft charges. Additionally, paying restitution for the stolen amount may resolve the issue.

Nonetheless, multiple criminal offenses and having a criminal record may result in enhanced penalties for the defendant. Therefore, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands Tennessee law and can help explain your options.

If you or friend or family member faces theft accusations or charges in Middle Tennessee, reach out to our office for a consultation about the specifics of your case.