Wellesley Larceny & Shoplifting Defense Lawyer – Protect Your Record Today
If you've been accused of larceny or shoplifting in Wellesley, Massachusetts, you may be facing jail time, steep fines, and a damaging criminal record. A theft conviction can follow you for years and affect your employment, education opportunities, and reputation.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend clients charged with all types of theft-related crimes. I know how aggressively these cases are prosecuted in Dedham District Court, and I work hard to get charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved without permanent consequences.
📞 Call now for a free confidential consultation: 857.229.2442
Understanding Larceny & Shoplifting in Massachusetts
Under MGL Chapter 266, theft-related offenses include:
Larceny (MGL § 30)
Unlawfully taking someone else's property with the intent to permanently keep it.
Examples include:
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Stealing merchandise from retail stores
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Employee theft and embezzlement
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Credit card or identity theft
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Receiving stolen property
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Auto theft or stealing items from vehicles
Shoplifting (MGL § 30A)
Taking goods from a store without paying for them — even a first-time offense can lead to criminal charges.
Common shoplifting accusations include:
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Concealing items inside bags or clothing
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Switching or altering price tags
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Under-ringing at self-checkout
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Returning stolen items for store credit
Penalties for Larceny & Shoplifting in Massachusetts
Penalties depend on the value of the property and prior criminal history.
Shoplifting Penalties
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Under $250 (first offense): Civil fine, possible dismissal
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Under $250 (second offense): Up to 1 year in jail + fines
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Over $250: Considered larceny, criminal penalties apply
Larceny Penalties
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Under $1,200: Misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail + $1,500 fine
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Over $1,200: Felony, up to 5 years in state prison
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Aggravated larceny: Harsher penalties for violent or repeated theft
A conviction also leaves a permanent criminal record, which can make it harder to get jobs, housing, or professional licenses.
Statute of Limitations for Theft Charges in Massachusetts
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Misdemeanor larceny/shoplifting: 6 years
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Felony larceny over $1,200: 10 years
If the charge was filed outside these limits, I may be able to get it dismissed.
Defenses Against Larceny & Shoplifting Charges
Me and my team build customized legal defense strategies. Possible defenses include:
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No intent to steal – Item was taken accidentally
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Mistaken identity – Poor security footage or wrongful accusation
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Lack of evidence – Insufficient proof of theft
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Illegal search and seizure – Your constitutional rights were violated
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Coerced confession – Statements made under pressure
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Diversion programs – Avoid a criminal record if you qualify
Where Your Wellesley Theft Case Will Be Heard
📍 Dedham District Court
631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
Phone: (781) 326-1600
Having an attorney who regularly handles theft cases in this court can make a major difference in the outcome.
Why Hire Me as Your Wellesley Larceny & Shoplifting Defense Lawyer?
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Decades of experience defending Massachusetts theft crimes
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Familiar with local prosecutors and court procedures
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Strategic motions to suppress evidence
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Strong track record of dismissals and reduced charges
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24/7 availability for urgent criminal defense calls
Contact a Wellesley Larceny & Shoplifting Lawyer Today
A theft accusation does not have to destroy your future. Me and my team at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett are ready to fight for you immediately.
📞 Call now for a free case evaluation:
📍 Wellesley, MA Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442
📍 Cranston, RI Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
📞 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com/
