Receiving Stolen Property Defense for Framingham State University Students
Framingham District Court Criminal & University Defense
Being accused of receiving stolen property can blindside a Framingham State University student. A simple mistake—buying an item from a friend, storing property in a dorm room, or borrowing something without knowing its origin—can suddenly turn into a criminal case and a university disciplinary crisis.
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend students charged in Framingham District Court and in Framingham State University Code of Conduct proceedings. Our goal is simple: protect your child's clean record, education, and future.
What Receiving Stolen Property Means in Massachusetts
Under M.G.L. c. 266 § 60, a person commits a crime if they knowingly:
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Buy
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Receive
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Possess
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Or help conceal stolen property
The prosecution must prove the student knew or should have known the property was stolen.
Penalties depend on the value of the property:
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Over $1,200 – Felony with potential state prison exposure
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Under $1,200 – Misdemeanor with jail, fines, and probation
Even a first offense can permanently damage a student's record.
How Framingham State Students Get Charged
These cases often come from:
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Buying discounted electronics, clothing, or books from friends
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Holding or storing items in a dorm or apartment
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Being connected to a larger theft investigation
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Borrowing items that later turn out to be stolen
College students are especially vulnerable because items are constantly exchanged informally.
Framingham District Court Process
If your child is charged, the case will proceed through:
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Arraignment
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Bail or release conditions
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Pretrial hearings and evidence review
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Possible dismissal, diversion, or trial
A conviction can block internships, graduate school, professional licensing, and employment.
Framingham State University Discipline
Even if the charge is minor, Framingham State may pursue discipline for:
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Theft
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Dishonesty
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Unlawful possession of property
This can lead to:
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Disciplinary probation
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Housing removal
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Suspension or expulsion
University discipline can happen even if the criminal case is dismissed.
Parent & Student FAQs
What if my child didn't know the item was stolen?
That is one of the strongest defenses we use. Knowledge must be proven.
Will this go on their record?
If not handled correctly, yes. We fight for dismissal, diversion, or sealing.
Will the university find out?
Yes. Criminal charges almost always trigger school action.
Does my child really need a lawyer?
Absolutely. These charges can permanently affect education and career paths.
Defense Strategies We Use
Me and my team build defenses by:
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Attacking the “knowledge” element
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Showing mistake or misunderstanding
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Proving third-party responsibility
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Negotiating for pretrial diversion or dismissal
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Coordinating with the university to protect academic status
Why Choose the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett focus on high-stakes student defense.
We bring:
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Framingham District Court criminal defense
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University disciplinary representation
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Strategic negotiation and record protection
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Confidential, aggressive advocacy
We don't just fight charges — we protect futures.
Call Now to Protect Your Child's Record
Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
📍 572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442
If your Framingham State University student is facing a receiving stolen property charge, call us now. Early intervention is the key to keeping this mistake from becoming permanent.
