Crimes Against Property

Crimes against property can be divided into two groups Property Destroyed such as acts of vandalism and

arson Property Stolen such as robbery and theft

Arson

The willful and malicious burning of a person’s property.

Burning of a property with the intent to defraud is considered a separate offence

At various times throughout history, arson has been racially motivated

The Church Arson Prevention Act of 1996 was passed by congress due to the rash racially motivated church arsons

Vandalism

Also known as the malicious mischiefIs the willful destruction of or damage to the

property of anotherVandalism is responsible for millions of

dollars in damages every yearVandalism includes; breaking windows,

ripping down fences, writing graffiti, and breaking off car hood ornaments

Vandalism can either be a felony or a misdemeanor

Larceny

Also known as theftIs the unlawful taking and carrying away of

the property of another person, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.

Most states divide larceny into to categories; simple larceny(petty theft) and grand larceny

Petty theft: taking property under the value of $100. Misdemeanor

Grand Larceny: taking property over the value of $100. Felony

Larceny Continued

Larceny also includes keeping lost property if there is a reasonable method to locate the owner

Shoplifting is also larceny Some states have categorized shoplifting as

concealment Shoplifting result in businesses losing billions of

dollars each year

Embezzlement

The unlawful taking of property by someone to whom it was entrusted

Example: A bank teller who takes money from the cash draw; A stockbroker who takes money that should have been invested

Extortion

Popularly called blackmail, is the use of threats to obtain the property of another.

Extortion statutes generally cover threats to do future harm, destroy property, or injure someone’s character or reputation.

Burglary

The unlawful entry into a dwelling or structure of another person with the intent to commit a felony therein.

Forgery

Falsely making or altering a document with the intent to defraud.

Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving or buying property that you know or have reason to believe is stolen is unlawful

Most states use the term “fence” to identify the offender

Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle

UUV is committed if the person only intends to take the vehicle temporarily.

Another name for UUV is “Joy riding”

Carjacking

Carjacking is a very violent offense punishable by a life sentence.

Carjacking is a face too face confrontation where the offender uses force or intimidation to steal a vehicle from a driver.