The Oregon Property Crimes Guide
Being charged with an Oregon property crime can be a very traumatic experience and leave you not knowing where to turn. Having a trusted and experienced Oregon defense attorney by your side can make all the difference. You need someone to explain what’s at stake and who will fight to protect your rights. In this article, we’ll go over the different types of Oregon property crimes along with the penalties associated.
We’re experienced in Oregon property crime law and can help you in your situation. We’re based in Beaverton and practice law throughout the Portland area including Clackamas County and Hillsboro. Give us a call or click the button below to get a free legal consultation.
Types of Property Crimes in Oregon
The different types of property crimes in Oregon have varying consequences depending on the specific circumstances and type of crime. But before we get into the consequences and penalties, let's go over what exactly a property crime is. A property crime involves the theft or destruction of another person’s property. This would include robbery, littering, arson, and vandalism to name a few. We’ve compiled a list of the most common property crimes in Oregon below:
Criminal Mischief in Oregon
Committing a criminal mischief crime in the state of Oregon means you willfully destroy or damage property, rendering it dangerous, inoperative, or useless. Actions taken may obstruct, interrupt, or interfere with the lawful use or enjoyment of property.
● Criminal mischief in the first degree is a Class C felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $125,000.
Arson
When a person commits arson in the first degree, they have either intentionally started a fire or caused an explosion with the intent to cause property damage or harm to another person.
● Arson in the first degree is a class A felony and is punishable by up to 20 years in prison with fines reaching a maximum of $375,000.
● Arson the second degree is a class C felony charge that carries a possible 5 year prison sentence and accompanying fines up to $125,000. This would involve starting a fire or creating an explosion with the intent to damage property.
Burglary
A burglary is the unlawful entry to a home or business with the intent to steal property or commit another crime by force or coercion.
● Burglary in the first degree is a Class A felony which carries up to 20 years in prison and $375,000 in fines. A burglary is considered first degree if a burglary tool or deadly weapon was used, an attempt to cause physical injury was involved, or there was a threat to use a dangerous weapon.
Robbery
You may be wondering what the difference between burglary and robbery is. Simply put, burglary involves the unlawful entry into a closed structure while a robbery uses force or the threat of force to take money or the belongings of another person.
● Robbery in the first degree is a Class A felony. This involves the person having a deadly weapon and attempts to use it to cause physical injury.
● Robbery in the second degree is a Class B felony-armed with a dangerous or deadly weapon with the help of an accomplice.
● Robbery in the third degree is a Class C felony. This involves someone attempting to commit theft or unauthorized use of a vehicle.
Identity Theft
Identify theft is committed when a person intentionally obtains or converts another person's identity to use as their own through deceptive measures.
● Identity theft is a Class C felony. Generally, an 18 month probationary period takes place that may include a short jail sentence, work release, and a fine to pay restitution for a first conviction.
Theft
Theft is defined as the act of intentionally depriving someone of his or her property. The different types of theft are as follows:
1. Obtaining, taking, or withholding property from its owner
2. Committing extortion by coercing another person to deliver property
3. Committing a theft by deception
4. Committing theft by receiving what isn’t yours
● Theft in the first degree is a Class C misdemeanor
● Theft in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor. The total value of the theft must be between $100 and $1000
● Theft in the third degree receives a Class C misdemeanor conviction. The total value of the theft must be less than $100
Vandalism
Vandalism is the willful destruction or damaging of property in a manner that defaces or adds a physical blemish and devalues the property. Simply put, destroying someone’s property without their permission. Examples of this may include slashing tires, breaking windows, or creating graffiti on the surface of someone else’s property.
● Vandalism is considered criminal mischief in the third degree. This offense is considered a Class C misdemeanor which is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines reaching $1250
How a Property Crimes Lawyer Can Help You
Convictions for property crimes range considerably depending on the severity of the case. Due to the significant penalties you could face when confronted with a property crime charge, it’s crucial you secure an experienced criminal defense attorney like Shannon Powell with Powell Law. Shannon will ensure your side of the story is heard and will fight to protect your freedom every step of the way.
*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.
