Theft, Robbery and Possession of Stolen Property

Theft (section 322 of the Criminal Code)

Theft is taking property to which you have no right, with the intent to deprive the person with an interest in it.

Property worth more than $5,000: up to 10 years’ imprisonment;
Property worth $5,000 or less: up to 2 years’ imprisonment.

The value of the property is one of the main factors that influence the sentence. Shoplifting, for example, generally involves property worth $5,000 or less.

Robbery

Theft becomes “robbery” when the person uses violence or threatens to use it. It is punishable by life imprisonment, and the sentence is harsher if a weapon is used.

Possession of Stolen Property

Possession of stolen property means having property in your possession while knowing it was obtained through a crime. Where the value exceeds $5,000, the maximum sentence is 10 years’ imprisonment.

Depending on the circumstances, an acquittal or a discharge may be possible.

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Theft, Robbery and Possession of Stolen Property