Charged with Larceny Over $250 in Massachusetts? Protect Your Future.
A charge of larceny over $250 in Massachusetts is not just a minor legal issue—it is a felony offense that carries serious criminal penalties and long-lasting consequences. If you or a loved one has been arrested for felony theft, it is critical to act quickly. At Briones Law Group, our experienced criminal defense attorneys are prepared to build a strong case on your behalf and fight to protect your rights, freedom, and reputation.
What Is Larceny Over $250?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, larceny is defined as the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner of possession. When the value of the stolen property exceeds $250, the charge is elevated to felony larceny, which is punishable by imprisonment, fines, and other legal penalties.
Examples of felony larceny include:
- Stealing electronics, jewelry, or cash over $250 in value
- Shoplifting high-value items from a retail store
- Passing bad checks or using fraudulent financial information
- Stealing property from a business, residence, or vehicle
Even if the total value is only slightly over the $250 threshold, you can still be prosecuted as a felon, making it even more important to challenge the prosecution’s claims with the help of a skilled defense attorney.
Penalties for Felony Larceny in Massachusetts
A conviction for larceny over $250 can lead to:
- Up to five years in state prison
- Up to two years in a county house of correction
- A fine up to $25,000
- Probation, community service, and restitution to the victim
- A permanent criminal record, which can impact employment, housing, education, and immigration status
What the Prosecution Must Prove
In order to convict someone of felony larceny, the District Attorney must prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- That the property was taken without consent
- That the value of the property exceeded $250 (approximations are not sufficient)
- That the property belonged to someone else
- That the defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property
- That the defendant was the person who committed the act, not just present at the scene
If any of these elements cannot be proven with certainty, the charges may be reduced to a misdemeanor or dismissed altogether.
Defense Strategies for Larceny Charges
At Briones Law Group, we explore every possible legal defense to minimize or eliminate the consequences of a felony larceny charge. Common defense strategies include:
- Lack of intent: You did not intend to permanently deprive the owner of the property
- Mistaken identity: You were not the person who committed the theft
- Value dispute: The item taken was actually worth less than $250
- Mere presence: You were present at the scene but did not participate in the crime
- Consent: The property owner allowed you to use or take the item
We also challenge the reliability of any evidence presented against you, including receipts, surveillance footage, credit card records, or witness statements. Acting quickly is essential—preserving and analyzing this evidence early allows us to develop a strong, fact-based defense.
Don’t Face Felony Charges Alone
A felony larceny conviction can have lifelong consequences, including loss of freedom, reputation, and future opportunities. With decades of experience defending clients in Massachusetts District Courts, we understand how to negotiate with prosecutors, challenge weak evidence, and fight for the best outcome—whether that means reduction of charges, dismissal, or alternative sentencing.
If you’ve been charged with larceny over $250, contact Briones Law Group today for a confidential case evaluation. Let us help you develop a powerful defense strategy and take immediate steps to protect your future.