Defense for Larceny and Shoplifting Charges – Framingham State University

Representing Framingham State University Students in Framingham District Court

Shoplifting and larceny charges are some of the most common criminal cases involving college students—but they are also some of the most damaging. A single accusation at a store, in a dorm, or on campus can lead to a permanent criminal record, loss of financial aid, and even suspension or expulsion from Framingham State University.

Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend students accused of theft-related crimes in Framingham District Court and in university disciplinary proceedings. Our job is to protect your child's record, reputation, and future.

📍 Cranston, RI: 1000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, RI 02920
📞 401.425.4059

📍 Wellesley, MA: 572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442

Massachusetts Larceny and Shoplifting Laws

Massachusetts law divides theft offenses into two main statutes:

M.G.L. c. 266, §30 – Larceny
This covers taking another person's property without permission. If the value is over $1,200, the charge becomes a felony.

M.G.L. c. 266, §30A – Shoplifting
This applies to stealing or attempting to steal from a store—no matter how small the item.

Students can be charged for:

Taking items from stores in Framingham
“Borrowing” property from roommates or dorm lounges
Using another student's debit or credit card
Being wrongly accused based on security footage or witness claims

Even low-value items can result in criminal prosecution and university discipline.

What Happens in Framingham District Court

Depending on the value of the property, your student may face:

Misdemeanor or felony charges
Fines and court costs
Probation or community service
Restitution to the store or alleged victim
Jail exposure for felony larceny

For first-time college students, me and my team focus on outcomes that avoid a conviction, including:

Pretrial diversion
Continuances Without a Finding (CWOFs)
Dismissals after probation
Civil demand negotiations

Our goal is always to keep the student's record clean.

Framingham State University Disciplinary Consequences

The university treats theft and dishonesty as major violations of its Student Code of Conduct. Students may face:

Disciplinary probation
Removal from housing
Loss of scholarships or financial aid
Suspension or expulsion
Removal from athletics or leadership roles

Even if the criminal case is dismissed, the school can still impose penalties. That's why we defend our clients in both systems.

Questions Parents Ask

Will this go on my child's record?
Yes—unless the case is dismissed, diverted, or resolved with a CWOF.

Can it be sealed or expunged?
In many cases, yes, but only if the case is handled correctly from the beginning.

What if my child is on a scholarship or sports team?
A theft charge can jeopardize both, especially if the school disciplines the student.

Should we tell the university?
The school often finds out through police or campus security reports. We guide families on how to handle this strategically.

Defense Strategies We Use

Me and my team build defenses designed for students, including:

First-time offender diversion programs
Lack of intent or misunderstanding
Mistaken identity or unreliable surveillance
Negotiating CWOFs or dismissals
Preventing school discipline through early advocacy

We fight to ensure one mistake does not define a young person's life.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett

Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett focus on defending college students facing criminal and disciplinary cases in Massachusetts.

We know:

How Framingham District Court handles theft cases
How Framingham State University disciplines students
How to protect academic standing, financial aid, and future careers

We do not just defend cases—we defend futures.

Contact a Framingham State Shoplifting Defense Lawyer Today

If your child has been charged with shoplifting or larceny, time matters.

📍 Cranston, RI: 1000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, RI 02920
📞 401.425.4059

📍 Wellesley, MA: 572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442

Me and my team are ready to step in and protect your child's future before a mistake becomes permanent.

Shoplifting and Larceny Defense for Framingham State University Students - Kensley Barrett Law