In Massachusetts, larceny is defined as the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its use or possession. This encompasses various forms, including larceny by stealing, false pretenses, embezzlement, and obtaining property by fraud. The law is codified under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30.
To secure a conviction for larceny in Massachusetts, the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
These elements apply across various forms of larceny, including larceny from the person, larceny by false pretenses, and larceny by embezzlement.
Penalties for larceny in Massachusetts vary based on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances of the offense:
With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to Boston criminal defense attorneys in Massachusetts.
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Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
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Facing a larceny charge in Massachusetts is a serious matter with potentially severe consequences. Delaying action can compromise your defense and limit your options. The prosecution is already building a case against you; it’s imperative to have a knowledgeable defense attorney who can protect your rights and challenge the evidence. Time is of the essence—take control of your situation immediately to ensure the best possible outcome.
It depends on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances. Generally, theft of property valued over $1,200 is a felony, while theft of property valued at $1,200 or less is a misdemeanor.
Larceny by stealing involves physically taking someone’s property without consent. Larceny by false pretenses involves obtaining someone’s property through intentional misrepresentation or deceit.
Yes. Embezzlement is a form of larceny where someone unlawfully takes property they were entrusted with, intending to convert it for personal use.
Yes. If the victim is 60 years or older or has a disability, and the stolen property’s value exceeds $250, the penalties are more severe, including longer imprisonment terms and higher fines.
Absolutely. The value determines whether the offense is classified as a misdemeanor or felony, directly impacting the potential penalties upon conviction.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links