Were you charged with receiving stolen property in Lexington, Kentucky? These cases can be more complicated than they first appear. Even if you didn’t commit the underlying theft, you could still face serious penalties. At Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, we know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to help.
Our Lexington receiving stolen property lawyers bring over 100 years of combined experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and police officers who understand the system from both sides. Contact us today at (859) 569-4014 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your defense options.
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How Suhre & Associates Can Help if You Were Charged With Receiving Stolen Property in Lexington, KY
When prosecutors charge you with receiving stolen property, they often assume you knew exactly what you were doing. In reality, these cases can be based on weak evidence or mistaken assumptions. That’s where we can come in and help.
At Suhre & Associates, we bring decades of courtroom experience to the table. Our Lexington theft crimes lawyers know how to build strategic defenses and how to spot problems with the prosecution’s case.
If you hire our firm, we will:
- Investigate the facts surrounding your arrest
- Review the evidence that the prosecution plans to use
- Seek out additional evidence that supports your side of the story
- File legal motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or dismissal of your charges
- Prepare a strong case for trial if that’s in your best interest
The earlier you involve a defense attorney, the better. We’ll help you understand your legal rights from day one and stand by you through every stage of the process. Contact us today for a free case review from a Lexington receiving stolen property lawyer.
What Does It Mean to Be Charged With Receiving Stolen Property in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, receiving stolen property is a criminal offense under KRS § 514.110. A person may be guilty if they knowingly receive, retain, or dispose of stolen property.
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove that:
- The property in question was stolen,
- You received, held, or got rid of that property, and
- You knew or had reason to know that the property was stolen.
That last part is often the most contested. Prosecutors don’t always have direct evidence that you knew the item was stolen, so they rely on circumstantial evidence.
For example, they might say the price was “too good to be true” or that you bought it from a suspicious source. However, assumptions are not the same as proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
What Are the Penalties for Receiving Stolen Property in Lexington?
The punishment for receiving stolen property in Kentucky depends on the value of the stolen item and whether any aggravating factors are involved.
Here’s how the law generally breaks it down:
- If the property is valued at less than $1,000, the charge is a Class A misdemeanor. You could face up to 12 months in jail.
- If the value is between $1,000 and $10,000, the offense becomes a Class D felony, punishable by one to five years in prison.
- If the property is worth more than $10,000, it becomes a Class C felony, which carries a sentence of five to ten years.
Certain types of property, like firearms, controlled substances, or items taken during a burglary, can increase the severity of the charge, even if their monetary value is low. A prior criminal record can also lead to enhanced penalties.
A felony conviction doesn’t just come with prison time. It can also impact your ability to find housing, keep a job, or vote. That’s why it’s so important to defend against these charges with experienced legal counsel.
What Defenses Can I Raise Against Receiving Stolen Property Charges in Kentucky?
There are several potential defenses to a charge of receiving stolen property in Lexington.
The right strategy will depend on the facts of your case, but our criminal defense attorneys may be able to argue that:
- Lack of knowledge: You didn’t know the property was stolen. This is one of the most common defenses. The state must prove knowledge or reckless disregard, not just suspicion.
- Rightful owner: You were the rightful owner of the property. If you believed the item was yours, or if there’s a dispute about ownership, that can be a powerful argument.
- Improper investigation: The police violated your rights. If your property was seized without a proper warrant or probable cause, we can fight to have that evidence thrown out.
- False accusation: You were falsely accused. In some cases, people are wrongly blamed for something a friend, roommate, or acquaintance did. We can highlight your lack of involvement.
No matter your situation, we’ll work with you to understand what happened and build a strategy that fits your goals.
Contact Our Lexington Receiving Stolen Property Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The attorneys at Suhre & Associates are here to protect your future and fight back against unfair accusations.
We have over 100 years of combined experience and a team that includes former prosecutors and police officers. That background gives us a unique insight into how to handle your case effectively.
Call our Lexington receiving stolen property lawyers for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options, answer your questions, and help you take the next step forward.
