Minnesota Statute
Theft is broadly defined as intentionally taking, using, transferring, concealing, or retaining another’s property without consent and with intent to deprive the owner of it. This includes acts like shoplifting, writing bad checks, fraudulently obtaining services, or swindling someone out of money or property.
The consequences vary by the value involved. Theft of $500 or less is a misdemeanor (up to 90 days jail and $1,000 fine). If the value is more than $500 but not over $1,000, it’s a gross misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail). Larger thefts are felonies: for example, stealing over $5,000 can lead to up to 10 years imprisonment, and if the value exceeds $35,000 (or if a firearm is stolen) it’s punishable by up to 20 years and a $100,000 fine.
Intent to deprive the owner of property or services and a non-consensual taking, use, or retention.
Value drives charging and sentencing; documentation and surveillance often decide outcomes.
Thresholds at $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $35,000 matter. Certain items (firearms, trade secrets) enhance consequences regardless of value.
Counsel focuses on value proof, diversion options, restitution-first resolutions, and suppression where police overreached.