Possible Defenses Against a Theft Charge in Maryland

 Posted on May 18, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you have been accused of theft, you could face several penalties, including fines, jail time, and a long-term criminal record. The damaging effects of a conviction should not be brushed off, as it could restrict your future employment opportunities. By working with a Maryland criminal defense lawyer, you can explore your options for contesting the charge in court.

At Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we have experience representing clients in a variety of criminal cases, including theft charges. Our team of defense attorneys includes former prosecutors who can effectively strategize for your case. We will do everything we can to protect you against allegations of theft, seeking reduced or dismissed charges.

Theft Charges and the Intent to Deprive

In a theft case, the prosecution must prove that you purposely tried to deprive someone else of property. This could mean hiding the property from the owner or using it in such a way that the owner is unlikely to get it back.

For a very basic example, consider the act of taking somebody else’s wallet without permission. The prosecutor might argue that you had an intent to deprive the owner if you used the money in that wallet to buy something. However, if there is no proof that you spent any of the money and you took reasonable steps to locate the owner, you could have a valid defense.

Rightful Ownership of Property

False accusations of theft can be frustrating to deal with. If you are the rightful owner of the allegedly stolen property, then you have the legal right to take it back. However, without hard evidence, this may be a difficult case to make.

At Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we can help you argue that you were the rightful owner of the "stolen" property. Receipts showing your rightful claim to the property can be invaluable evidence for your case. Witness testimony can also help to support your claim in court. Our attorneys can advise you on what to say in court and how to respond to any false claims.

Entrapment in Theft Cases

It is illegal for law enforcement to coerce or pressure people into committing crimes. If you would have not committed the crime without that outside influence, you could cite that as a defense in court. This illegal practice is known as entrapment, sometimes used by undercover officers overstepping their bounds.

An example of entrapment might involve an undercover police officer positioned at a convenience store urging people to shoplift while the cashier is not looking. If you cite entrapment as a defense, the prosecution must prove that you were predisposed to commit the crime – meaning that you would have committed it regardless.

Meet With an Anne Arundel County, MD Theft Defense Lawyer

The ramifications of a theft charge can be long-lasting. People may look at you differently and consider you less trustworthy. At Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we can help you challenge allegations of theft in court. To schedule a free consultation with one of our Annapolis, MD criminal defense attorneys today, call our offices at 410-280-2500.