Theft Crimes

Theft offenses can include shoplifting, theft by taking, theft by deception, theft by conversion, burglary-related accusations, financial crimes, or allegations involving property, money, or services. Even when the value seems small, the consequences can be serious. A theft conviction can affect employment, professional licensing, immigration status, school opportunities, and a person's reputation for honesty. CAM LAW defends people accused of theft crimes in Carrollton and across West Georgia, including Carroll, Coweta, Troup, Heard, Polk, and Haralson counties.

Common Theft Charges in Georgia

• Shoplifting. Taking merchandise, switching price tags, or concealing items with the intent to keep them without paying.
• Theft by taking. Unlawfully taking or keeping someone else's property with the intent to deprive them of it.
• Theft by deception. Obtaining property through a false statement, trick, or misleading promise.
• Theft by conversion. Lawfully receiving property or money, such as a rental item or client funds, and then using it for an unauthorized purpose.
• Theft by receiving stolen property. Receiving or keeping property while knowing or having reason to know it was stolen.
• Burglary and related charges. Entering a home, vehicle, or building without authority with the intent to commit a theft or felony inside.
• Financial and identity-related charges. Allegations involving credit cards, checks, accounts, or someone else's identifying information.

Misdemeanor or Felony: Value and History Matter

In Georgia, whether a theft is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony often depends on the value of the property, the type of property involved, and the person's prior record. Lower-value theft is generally a misdemeanor, while higher-value property, certain kinds of property, and repeat shoplifting offenses can be charged as felonies with the possibility of prison time. If you are facing a felony-level charge, see our felony defense page.

What Evidence Is Used in a Theft Case

Theft cases may involve surveillance video, receipts, witness statements, loss-prevention reports, bank records, text messages, and ownership disputes. A key question in many cases is intent: whether the person knowingly took or kept property they had no right to. Misunderstandings, mistaken identity, borrowed property, and disputes over ownership or payment can all be important parts of a defense.

Possible Defenses and Outcomes

• Challenging whether the State can prove intent to steal
• Questioning identification from video or witnesses
• Disputing the claimed value of the property
• Showing a legitimate claim of ownership or permission
• Seeking pretrial diversion or First Offender treatment for eligible clients
• Negotiating restitution, a reduced charge, or a resolution that protects your record

CAM LAW reviews the evidence, identifies weaknesses in the State's case, and helps clients understand the possible consequences before making decisions. If you have been accused of any theft crime, it is important to obtain knowledgeable counsel to mount a defense.

Theft Crimes FAQs

Should I respond to a civil demand letter from a store?

Many retailers send civil demand letters after a shoplifting accusation. That letter is separate from the criminal case. Talk with an attorney before paying or responding so you understand how it may affect your criminal charge.

Can a theft charge be removed from my record?

In some situations, yes. Dismissals, diversion programs, and First Offender sentences may make a person eligible for record restriction. An attorney can review whether that is an option.

Attorney advertising. This page provides general information about Georgia law and is not legal advice. Every case is different, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact CAM LAW to discuss the specific facts of your situation.