Facing a Receiving Stolen Property Charge? Our Defense Attorneys Are Prepared to Defend You
If you’ve been charged with Receiving Stolen Property in Massachusetts, your next steps matter. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a criminal defense law firm with offices in Boston and Salem, and we focus on representing individuals charged with theft and property crimes, including Receiving Stolen Property. Our law firm includes aggressive criminal defense attorneys, including a former prosecutor who brings valuable insight into how the state builds these types of cases. We understand the local courts and the legal process in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties—and we’re prepared to take your case seriously.
Whether you’re from Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, our defense attorneys are ready to protect your rights. Being accused of Receiving Stolen Property is not a minor issue—it can result in criminal penalties, long-term consequences on your record, and challenges in employment, housing, and education. Our team has successfully represented clients in courts across Massachusetts and provides strategic, aggressive defense with your future in mind.
What Is Receiving Stolen Property in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 60, a person may be charged with Receiving Stolen Property if they knowingly buy, receive, or aid in concealing property that was stolen or unlawfully taken. The key term here is “knowingly.” To be found guilty, the Commonwealth must prove that:
- The property was stolen;
- You knew or had reason to know it was stolen when you received it, and
- You knowingly took possession, control, or helped conceal that property.
According to the law, “stolen” also includes property obtained by false pretenses, larceny, or embezzlement. The charges can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the stolen property and your criminal history.
- If the value is under $1,200, the offense may be classified as a misdemeanor, with potential jail time of up to 2.5 years.
- If the value is $1,200 or more, or if the accused has prior similar offenses, it could be charged as a felony, carrying more severe penalties.
How an Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
Charges for Receiving Stolen Property often involve complex questions about intent and knowledge. Our criminal defense law firm works to challenge the prosecution’s assumptions about what you knew and when. In many cases, people unknowingly purchase or accept items without realizing they were stolen. Proving that you lacked intent or knowledge is critical, and our attorneys examine every detail of the evidence, from witness statements to police reports.
We may also challenge whether the property was actually stolen under the legal definition. If your case involves questionable search and seizure procedures, we’ll assess whether your constitutional rights were violated and, if so, file the appropriate motions to suppress evidence.
Our defense strategy is tailored based on your unique circumstances. We believe each client deserves personalized representation, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Local Knowledge. Focused Experience. Real Results.
With offices located in Boston and Salem, our law firm is deeply familiar with the courts and legal systems across the region. We regularly defend individuals charged with Receiving Stolen Property in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Being charged with Receiving Stolen Property does not mean you’re guilty. We are unyielding in our demands that the state prove all aspects of the offence beyond a reasonable doubt to meet our burden. Our defense attorneys are known for aggressive courtroom representation and for taking a proactive approach—gathering evidence, negotiating when appropriate, and preparing for trial from day one.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm?
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the stress and uncertainty of being charged with a property crime. That’s why we take your case personally. Our defnse attorneys don’t just go through the motions—we take a deep dive into your case, your background, and your goals to create a customized defense strategy. With experience in both prosecution and defense, we offer a balanced, strategic view of your case. We are prepared to represent you at every stage—from arraignment to trial—whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony.
We’re not here to scare you with worst-case scenarios or to overpromise results. We’re here to offer realistic, aggressive legal representation based on your specific situation.
Set Up a Strategy Session Today
If you’ve been charged with Receiving Stolen Property in Massachusetts, it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you speak with a defense attorney, the better your chances of identifying strong legal defenses. Whether you’re in Boston, Salem, or anywhere in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties, we are ready to listen and help you build a plan. Contact us now to set up a strategy session with a qualified Massachusetts defense attorney who will fight for your rights and protect your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for Receiving Stolen Property in Massachusetts?
The property is usually charged as a misdemeanour with a maximum sentence of 2.5 years in prison if its worth is less than $1,200. If over $1,200 or with prior offenses, it may be a felony, with up to 5 years in state prison.
Do I have to know the property was stolen to be convicted?
Yes. The prosecution must prove that you knew or had reason to believe the property was stolen. Without that knowledge, you cannot be found guilty under Chapter 266, Section 60.
Can I be charged if I bought something online that was later found to be stolen?
Potentially, but only if the prosecution can show that you had reason to know it was stolen. Factors like price, seller behavior, or missing serial numbers might come into play.
Will a Receiving Stolen Property conviction go on my record?
Yes, a conviction becomes part of your criminal record and may affect future employment, housing, and other aspects of your life. Our attorneys work to avoid convictions whenever possible.
Should I talk to police if I’m being investigated for this charge?
No. You have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney present. Statements you make can be used against you later. Contact a Massachusetts defense attorney before speaking to law enforcement.