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Can Package Theft Lead to Criminal Charges in Wisconsin?
The rapid growth of online shopping has unfortunately led to an increase in package theft. Boxes left outside of people’s homes can prove tempting to potential thieves, especially during the holiday season when people may be purchasing expensive gifts. A person who is accused of stealing packages may face criminal charges for theft or other offenses, and if they are convicted, significant penalties may be imposed. By understanding the laws that address package theft in Wisconsin and the options for defending against criminal charges, a person who is charged with these offenses can take steps to defend themselves. During this process, representation from an experienced attorney is crucial.
An Overview of Wisconsin Laws Relating to Package Theft
In general, any form of theft—including stealing packages—is against the law. The specific laws and potential penalties depend on multiple factors such as the value or contents of the stolen item(s), whether force or deception was used during the crime, whether a person is accused of stealing mail delivered to others, and a person's prior criminal record.
Wisconsin Statutes Section 943.20 addresses theft, including situations where a person is accused of intentionally taking, possessing, or concealing another person's “movable property” with the intent to permanently deprive the person of ownership of these items. A person who is accused of intentionally taking someone else’s mail or packages from their mailbox or porch with no intention to return them could be charged with theft.
Wisconsin law also defines the offense of theft of mail. Under Wisconsin Statutes Section 943.204, a person may be charged with this crime if they intentionally take or receive mail from a residence without the consent of the owner and with the intent of permanently depriving the person of ownership of these items. Mail may include letters, packages, bags, or other items delivered by the U.S. Postal Service or other delivery services.
Potential Penalties for Package Theft in Wisconsin
The severity of punishment for alleged package thieves can vary widely depending on the circumstances of a case:
Theft is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor when a person is accused of stealing goods worth up to $2,500. A conviction can result in fines of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to nine months, or both.
Theft may result in felony charges when a person is accused of stealing items valued at more than $2,500. Class I felony charges may apply for the theft of items worth $2,500 to $10,000, and a person may be fined up to $10,000 and sentenced to up to three years and six months in prison. Penalties will increase in cases involving the theft of goods worth more than $10,000.
Theft of mail may be charged as a Class A misdemeanor if fewer than 10 pieces of mail were allegedly stolen. Felony charges will apply if a person is accused of stealing more than 10 pieces of mail. Packages stolen from multiple people or locations may be considered as long as they are part of the same “course of conduct.” Because of this, a person who is accused of stealing multiple packages over several days or weeks could potentially face serious penalty charges, and they could be sentenced to several years in prison and be required to pay large fines.
People who are convicted of theft or theft of mail may also be required to pay restitution for the value of the items they have been accused of stealing.
Contact Our Milwaukee Theft Defense Lawyers
If you have been accused of package theft or any other form of theft, taking steps to address criminal charges and defend against a conviction is crucial. At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, our Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights. We will help you build an effective defense strategy that will minimize the potential consequences that these charges may have on your life. Contact us at 414-271-1440 to set up a consultation today.
