Property crimes are common offenses that can have significant consequences for both the perpetrator and the victim. These crimes are severely punished in our criminal code, which can greatly impact the perpetrator’s life.
Below, we discuss some of the most common property crimes.
Theft
Theft is the quintessential property crime. Moreover, theft is considered complete as soon as the stolen item is in the thief’s possession. Returning the item to the owner afterward does not undo the theft.
The criminal code clearly distinguishes between theft accompanied by violence and theft without violence.
Additionally, there are many aggravating circumstances that can increase the severity of the punishment for theft:
* At night
* With two or more persons
* Using a vehicle
* With forced entry
Whether violence is involved or any of the aggravating circumstances apply impacts the final sentence. The penalties for severe thefts with violence can be up to 10 years in prison.
Note that in some cases, theft (for example, between spouses) may not be prosecuted criminally, but only a civil procedure can follow.
Fraud
In fraud, the perpetrator ensures that, through deceit, they are given a property. The deceit can involve using cunning tricks or false names. An example is someone pretending to be an investor and promising large profits. The fraudster will receive the money because they make the victim believe in an imaginary profit.
Unlike fraud, in embezzlement, the victim voluntarily hands over the property to the perpetrator. Subsequently, the perpetrator will not return the property or will misappropriate it. Thus, the victim is deceived after handing over the property. An example is someone leasing a car and then selling it behind the leasing company’s back.
Arson
Arson involves the destruction of movable or immovable property by fire. This can be either intentional, with the aim of destruction, or unintentional. The penalty for this crime can also be increased if there is an aggravating circumstance, such as committing it at night.
Conclusion
For these types of crimes, it is important to always be assisted by a lawyer, whether you are the victim or the suspect. Our Criminal Law experts provide you with clear advice and swift action.
Contact our DGDM experts. They will give you the proper advice.
