Understanding ARS Theft: ARS 13-1802
Facing Arizona theft charges is overwhelming. Whether it be ARS theft of property or theft of services, the legal system is complex and can be intimidating. Understanding the specifics of the crime and the potential penalties if convicted are important steps in navigating the legal system.
This guide provides a detailed overview of Arizona theft laws. It explains key terms and the theft ARS sentencing guidelines. It also answers frequently asked questions about your charges.
Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice from an experienced Arizona criminal defense lawyer. If you are charged with theft, consult with a qualified Phoenix theft lawyer as soon as possible.
What is Theft?

ARS theft is broadly defined and covers a wide range of actions related to taking or misusing another’s property or services without their consent. At the core of Arizona theft laws is that you knowingly acted without lawful authority and took control of something that didn’t belong to you.
ARS 13 1802 divides the crime of theft into the following categories:
- Controlling property with the intent to deprive: Taking someone’s belongings and intending to keep them permanently. This is the most common form of theft. An example of this theft is stealing an ebike from a bike rack.
- Converting property or services for unauthorized use: Using property or services that were entrusted to you for a specific purpose but then using them for your own, unauthorized purposes. An example of this theft is misusing a company credit card issued to you by your employer.
- Obtaining property or services through misrepresentation: Tricking someone into giving you something by lying about something important. An example of this theft is creating false documents to get something that doesn’t belong to you.
- Coming into possession of lost or mislaid property: Discovering something that’s lost and failing to make reasonable efforts to find the owner. An example of this theft is finding a wallet outside a grocery store and leaving with it without looking for the rightful owner.
- Controlling stolen property: Knowing or having reason to know that something in your possession is stolen. An example of this theft is holding stolen car parts for a friend while he set up a sale.
- Obtaining services without paying: Receiving services knowing that they require compensation but not paying. An example of this theft is stealing cable or internet services.
- Theft from vulnerable adults: Taking advantage of a vulnerable person’s property while in a position of trust. An example of this theft is manipulating your elderly uncle to give you an expensive gift that he wouldn’t have given if not manipulated.
Sentencing for Theft:

The penalties for ARS theft are severe and vary based on the specific charge, your criminal history, and the circumstances of the crime. The severity of the theft charge depends on the value of the stolen goods or services.
The following table summarizes the range of theft offenses:
Theft Value | Class | Jail/Prison | Probation (max) |
---|---|---|---|
Under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Jail: up to 6 months | 3 years |
$1,000 - $1,999 | Class 6 Felony | Prison: 0.33 – 2 years | 3 years |
$2,000 - $2,999 | Class 5 Felony | Prison: 0.5 – 2.5 years | 3 years |
$3,000 - $3,999 | Class 4 Felony | Prison: 1 – 3.75 years | 4 years |
$4,000 - $24,999 | Class 3 Felony | Prison: 2 – 8.75 years | 5 years |
$25,000+ | Class 2 Felony | Prison: 3 – 12.5 years | 7 years |
Frequently Asked Questions:

Theft is defined as knowingly controlling property or services of another person with the intent to deprive them of it. This can include taking property that was lost, mislaid, or misdelivered without making reasonable efforts to find the true owner.
A vulnerable adult is someone who is 18 or older and cannot protect themselves from abuse, neglect, or exploitation due to a physical or mental condition.
Theft of property or services valued at less than $1,000 is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Theft of property or services valued at more than $1000 are charged as felonies. A felony charge is more serious than a misdemeanor charge and carries significantly higher penalties.
Value is determined by various factors, including the item's market value, replacement cost, and any damage caused by the theft.
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Key Takeaways:

- Definition:Theft is a crime that involves taking or misusing another’s property or services without consent or authority.
- Categories of Theft:
Theft Category | Example |
---|---|
Controlling property with the intent to deprive | Stealing an ebike |
Converting property or services for unauthorized use | Misuse of a company credit card |
Obtaining property or services through misrepresentation | Creating false documents for ill-got gains |
Coming into possession of lost or mislaid property | Finding a wallet and not looking for the owner |
Controlling stolen property | Holding stolen car parts for a friend |
Obtaining services without paying | Stealing cable or internet services |
Theft from vulnerable adults | Manipulating an elderly relative for an expensive gift |
- Sentencing for Theft: Penalties for theft vary based on the value of the stolen property or service.
- Misdemeanor theft: stealing property or services with a value of less than $1,000.
- Felony theft: stealing property or services with a value of $1,000 or more. Felony theft can range from a class 6 felony ($1,000 – $1,999) to a class 2 felony ($25,000+).
Next Steps:

Breaking Arizona theft laws is a serious crime with serious consequences. The charges and the resulting sentence depend on many factors. You need to understand the law and your rights to effectively get through this difficult situation.
If you’re facing ARS theft charges, under ARS 13-1802, engaging a skilled Phoenix theft lawyer is essential to protect your rights and manage the process. Don’t try navigating the legal system alone; get an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side right away.