I’ve been charged with theft under $5000. Am I going to jail?

Oftentimes, people charged with Theft Under are being accused of trying to steal a relatively small item worth under $100 (for example, a shirt from Winners or a bottle of alcohol from the LCBO). While it may seem relatively minor, it could result in a criminal record if you are found guilty.

The facts and circumstances are often looked at by the Crown, and if it goes to trial, by the court. Depending on the circumstances around the theft, you may be viewed with a sympathetic mind. Why an item was stolen and what item was stolen has great bearing on how a person will be looked at by the court system.

Potential Penalty:

i) If the Crown proceeds by way of Indictment, the maximum jail sentence allowed is 2 years if the value is under $5000.

ii) If the Crown proceeds by way of a summary conviction, the maximum jail sentence is 6 months if the value is under $5000.