Property crime is the most common crime in Arizona. In 2022, there were 151,421 property crime incidents throughout Arizona, accounting for over 82% of total crimes. Antol & Sherman is your resource for the latest crime statistics in Arizona, as well as trusted legal representation if you or someone you know has been impacted by a property crime charge. Let’s dive deeper into the types of property crime and what a property crime lawyer can do for you.
What is a Property Crime?
Property crime refers to offenses that involve the stealing or destruction of someone else’s property without the use or threat of force against the victim. While property crimes are typically nonviolent, they can have serious consequences for victims and perpetrators alike.
5 Types of Property Crime
1) Property Theft
The most common type of property crime in Arizona is theft. Property theft involves the unauthorized taking of someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of its use or possession. This can include theft of personal belongings, shoplifting, and car theft.
In 2022, there were 18,781 cases of motor vehicle theft in Arizona.
2) Criminal Trespassing
Criminal trespassing occurs when a person enters or remains on someone else’s property without permission. This can include entering a building unlawfully or refusing to leave a property after being asked to do so.
Trespassing can be charged as:
- Criminal Trespass in the First Degree (ARS §13-1504): A class 6 felony that involves entering a residential area or a critical public service facility.
- Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree (ARS §13-1503): A class 2 misdemeanor that involves unlawfully entering a non-residential fenced-in area.
- Criminal Trespass in the Third Degree (ARS §13-1502): A class 3 misdemeanor that involves knowingly entering any real property after a reasonable request to leave.
3) Burglary
Burglary involves unlawfully entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a theft or felony. This can include breaking into homes, businesses, or other properties to steal valuables.
In 2022, there were 20,677 cases of burglary in Arizona.
4) Arson
Arson is the intentional setting of fires to destroy property. This can include setting fire to buildings, vehicles, or other structures with the intent to cause damage.
In 2022, there were 844 cases of arson in Arizona.
5) Vandalism/Criminal Damage
Vandalism, also known as criminal damage, involves the intentional destruction or defacement of someone else’s property. This can include graffiti, vandalism of public property, or damaging someone else’s vehicle.
What is the Punishment for Property Crime?
The punishment for property crime can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the value of the property involved. In Arizona, penalties for property crimes can include fines, restitution to the victim, community service, probation, or imprisonment.
Benefits of Hiring a Property Crime Lawyer
A property crime lawyer will navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf, working diligently to prevent convictions and guard your freedom.
A local criminal defense attorney will have a thorough understanding of Arizona’s laws and court system, which can be invaluable in your case. The attorneys at Antol & Sherman offer over 60 years of combined legal experience and are highly familiar with the ins and outs of the court systems and laws in Northern Arizona.
What Does a Property Crime Lawyer Do?
Throughout your case, they will investigate, analyze evidence, speak to all parties involved, conduct jury selection, and help with plea bargaining and sentencing.
If you or someone you know has been accused of a property crime, seeking legal representation from an experienced criminal defense lawyer is essential.
Schedule a Free Consultation on your Case
Property crime is the most common type of crime in Arizona, and it can be a serious offense with heavy fines and imprisonment. Hiring a criminal defense attorney for a property crime charge can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Schedule a consultation with Antol & Sherman, your trusted team of Flagstaff criminal defense lawyers. Trust our experienced, aggressive team to fight your criminal charges and guard your freedom.