Larceny and Shoplifting at Northeastern University
Defending Northeastern Students Accused of Theft in Massachusetts
Larceny and shoplifting charges are among the most common criminal allegations facing Northeastern University students—but they are far from minor. A single accusation can lead to arrest, a criminal record, and serious university discipline that follows you long after graduation.
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Northeastern students charged with shoplifting and larceny in Boston Municipal Court and in parallel university disciplinary proceedings. Early legal representation is critical to protecting your record, your education, and your future.
Massachusetts Law on Larceny and Shoplifting
Massachusetts law separates theft offenses into larceny and shoplifting, both of which are prosecuted aggressively—even for first-time student offenders.
Larceny – M.G.L. c. 266, § 30
Larceny involves taking someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. This can include:
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Personal property
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University or institutional property
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Financial or electronic property
Shoplifting – M.G.L. c. 266, § 30A
Shoplifting charges may be based on:
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Concealing merchandise
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Switching or altering price tags
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Removing items from a store without paying
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Assisting another person in shoplifting
Potential Criminal Penalties
Penalties depend on the value of the property involved:
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Under $250
Misdemeanor offense punishable by up to 1 year in jail, fines, restitution, and probation -
Over $250
Felony offense punishable by up to 5 years in state prison
Retail stores may also pursue civil demand letters, requiring payment even if criminal charges are dismissed.
Northeastern University Code of Student Conduct and Theft Allegations
Northeastern University treats theft-related misconduct as a serious violation of its Code of Student Conduct, regardless of whether the incident occurred on or off campus.
Prohibited Conduct Includes
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Taking property belonging to another person or institution
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Unauthorized possession or use of goods
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Theft or misuse of IDs, credit cards, or financial information
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Assisting or facilitating theft by others
Possible University Sanctions
University discipline may include:
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Written warnings or disciplinary probation
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Suspension or expulsion
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Restitution and mandatory educational programming
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Loss of housing, financial aid, or leadership opportunities
Official Northeastern University Code of Student Conduct:
https://osccr.sites.northeastern.edu/code-of-student-conduct/
University sanctions can proceed independently of the criminal court case, making coordinated legal strategy essential.
Boston Municipal Court and Larceny Prosecution
Criminal shoplifting and larceny cases involving Northeastern students are typically handled in:
Boston Municipal Court
Edward W. Brooke Courthouse
24 New Chardon Street
Boston, MA 02114
📞 (617) 788-8700
Me and my team regularly advocate for outcomes such as diversion programs, dismissals, continuances without a finding, and record sealing to reduce or eliminate long-term consequences.
Why Northeastern Students Choose the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
A theft charge does not have to derail your education or career. Me and my team focus on resolving student cases with discretion, speed, and strategy.
What My Firm Provides
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Focused defense for college students charged with larceny or shoplifting
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Experience in Boston Municipal Court and university conduct hearings
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Strategic negotiation to avoid criminal records whenever possible
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Coordinated defense of both legal and academic proceedings
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Personalized representation—not a one-size-fits-all approach
Our goal is simple: protect your record, your education, and your future.
Contact the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
If you are facing a shoplifting or larceny charge connected to Northeastern University, do not wait to get legal advice.
📍 Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442
📍 Cranston, Rhode Island Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
📞 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com/
Confidential consultations available. One mistake should not define your future—early legal action makes all the difference.
