Virginia Man Charged With Larceny In Missing Evidence Case

The son of a former Augusta County sheriff was charged with grand larceny and larceny with intent to sell or distribute, as reported by The News Virginian.

The charges stem from a two-year-old probe into missing evidence. At least one firearm and $4,000 in seized funds disappeared from the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office.

To fully comprehend the impact of this development, we need to explore the Virginia laws that address grand larceny and larceny with intent to sell or distribute.

What is Virginia’s Definition of Grand Larceny?

Before we delve into the definition of grand larceny, we need to take a step back. Virginia law provides different definitions of theft based on the value of the goods stolen. In cases involving low-value goods, the misdemeanor of petty larceny applies. In cases involving high-value goods, the felony of grand larceny applies.

We can find the definition of two variations of grand larceny in Code of Virginia section 18.2-95. In the first variation, Virginia law addresses theft from a person’s body of at least $5. Common examples could include pickpocketing or mugging. In the second variation, Virginia addresses high-value theft. If there is a theft of $200 or more in goods, with no intention to return the goods, then grand larceny occurs.

What is Virginia’s Definition of Larceny with Intent to Sell or Distribute? 

We can find the definition of larceny with intent to sell or distribute in Code of Virginia section 18.2-108.01. Essentially, this section addresses the sale of stolen property worth $200 or more.

This section outlines several key considerations:

• Multiple thefts of the same product can constitute larceny with intent to sell or distribute.
• The law can apply even if you did not steal the goods in question. If you know that the goods were stolen and try to sell them anyway, it is a Class 5 felony.
• Larceny with intent to sell or distribute is separate from an offense of larceny. That means an individual can be convicted of and face penalties for both crimes.

Do You Need Legal Counsel from a Seasoned Criminal Defense Attorney? 

Whether you are facing charges for grand larceny or other crimes, the process can be frightening. There is good cause to be nervous, given steep fines and potential loss of freedom. It is not advisable to take chances with so much on the line. That is why it is vital to seek counsel from a seasoned criminal defense attorney. That way you have a champion in your corner, helping you resolve all charges.

If you have questions about criminal charges, please do not hesitate to contact an attorney. Simms Showers LLP provides seasoned counsel to clients in a broad range of criminal cases. Follow up with Simms Showers LLP as soon as possible to start planning your defense. Serving clients across Northern Virginia and headquartered in Leesburg, you can meet us easily in person. You can also call us at 703-997-7821 or request a follow-up meeting by completing an online form.

Resource:

dailyprogress.com/newsvirginian/news/local/former-augusta-sheriff-s-son-arrested-in-ongoing-missing-evidence/article_0081ea90-8d19-11e7-9215-93191da211b2.html