Receiving Stolen Property – Regis College
Defending Regis College Students Accused of Receiving Stolen Property
Dedham District Court & College Disciplinary Proceedings
A charge for receiving stolen property can have serious consequences for a Regis College student. What may start as a misunderstanding or poor judgment can quickly escalate into a criminal prosecution and a college disciplinary case that threatens a student's education, reputation, and future career.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Regis College students charged with receiving stolen property and related offenses. Our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and minimize both criminal and academic consequences.
Understanding Receiving Stolen Property Charges in Massachusetts
Receiving stolen property is prosecuted under M.G.L. c. 266, § 60. Under this statute, a person may be charged if they knowingly buy, receive, possess, or assist in concealing property that has been stolen or embezzled.
Common situations involving college students include:
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Possessing electronics, clothing, or bicycles taken from another student
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Accepting stolen property from a friend or roommate
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Purchasing items at a price that suggests they may be stolen
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Holding or storing property for someone else
The prosecution must prove that the student knew or should have known the property was stolen, which is often the central issue in these cases.
Criminal Charges Versus College Discipline
Receiving stolen property cases often move forward on two separate tracks:
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A criminal case in Dedham District Court
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A disciplinary investigation by Regis College
Even if criminal charges are dismissed or reduced, the college may still impose sanctions under its student conduct policies.
Legal Consequences of Receiving Stolen Property
Penalties depend on the value of the property and any prior offenses.
Property Value Not Exceeding $1,200 (First Offense)
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Up to 2½ years in the house of correction
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Fine of up to $3,000
Property Value Not Exceeding $1,200 (Second or Subsequent Offense)
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Up to 2½ years in the house of correction or
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Up to 5 years in state prison
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Fine of up to $5,000
Property Value Exceeding $1,200
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Up to 2½ years in the house of correction or
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Up to 5 years in state prison
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Fine of up to $5,000
A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect employment, graduate school applications, and professional licensing.
All criminal cases involving Regis College students are handled at:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street
Dedham, MA 02026
Regis College Policies and Disciplinary Actions
Regis College prohibits theft and possession of stolen property under its Student Handbook. Off-campus conduct may still fall within the college's disciplinary authority if it impacts the campus community.
Possible disciplinary sanctions include:
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Disciplinary probation
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Suspension
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Expulsion
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Mandatory counseling or educational programs
College proceedings are independent of the court process, and sanctions may be imposed even without a criminal conviction.
Relevant policy:
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Regis College Student Handbook
https://www.regiscollege.edu/studenthandbook
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes receiving stolen property under Massachusetts law?
Knowingly buying, receiving, possessing, or helping conceal stolen or embezzled property under M.G.L. c. 266, § 60.
How does Regis College handle these allegations?
The college conducts its own investigation and may impose discipline regardless of the criminal case outcome.
What should I do if I am accused?
Do not speak with police or college officials before consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Defense Strategies for Receiving Stolen Property Charges
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett tailor every defense strategy to the facts of the case, which may include:
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Challenging whether the student knew the property was stolen
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Disputing the value of the alleged stolen property
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Examining how the evidence was obtained
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Negotiating charge reductions or dismissals
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Coordinating criminal defense with college disciplinary representation
Early intervention can often make a critical difference in the outcome.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
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Extensive experience handling theft and property crime cases
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Focused representation for college students
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Deep familiarity with Dedham District Court
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Strategic handling of criminal and campus proceedings
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Direct, confidential, and aggressive advocacy
Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com
We offer confidential consultations for Regis College students facing receiving stolen property charges and are prepared to act quickly to protect your education, your record, and your future.
