Stealing a Backpack can Become a Felony

A Salvation Army bell ringer's backpack was stolen recently while the woman was collecting donations in downtown St. Paul. The contents of the woman's backpack had an approximate value of $2,500. The St. Paul police have not made any arrests in the case.

Under Minnesota Statute section 609.52, a person commits theft when they intentionally (and without claiming a right to the property) takes the property of another without the owner's consent and with the intention to permanently keep the property. If the value of the property is between $1,000 and $5,000, the theft charge becomes a felony carrying a penalty of up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Therefore, the charges against a suspected guilty party in the case of the stolen backpack would be a felony, because of the value of the backpack contents.

If you have or believe you will be charge in connection with a theft, please contact a St. Paul Criminal Defense Lawyer for assistance or a free consultation. It is important to fully understand the situation and your rights by talking with a St. Paul Criminal Defense lawyer.