Are you facing a theft charge in Washington County? The stakes are high, whether it’s shoplifting at Walmart, a misunderstanding over borrowed property, or allegations of using someone else’s debit card. Our Washington County criminal defense lawyers can help you understand the charge, protect your record, and navigate the local courts. Call 724-399-3491 or contact us for a free consultation.
Common Theft Crimes in Washington County — Understanding Your Charges
Pennsylvania groups many offenses under the theft code. The name of your charge depends on what the Commonwealth says happened and the value involved. Here are some common charges we defend, explained in plain language. Click the links to read the full legal definitions via the Pennsylvania Crimes Code.
Theft by Unlawful Taking (18 Pa.C.S. § 3921)
Accused of taking or exercising control over someone else’s property with intent to keep it. This covers movable items (like electronics) and immovable interests (like real estate rights). Penalties depend on value.
Receiving Stolen Property (18 Pa.C.S. § 3925)
Possessing, buying, or selling property you knew—or should have known—was stolen. Value drives the grading.
Theft by Deception (18 Pa.C.S. § 3922)
Getting property by misleading someone (for example, by false statements or schemes).
Theft of Services (18 Pa.C.S. § 3926)
Using services (utilities, cable, ride, room) without paying, or using devices to avoid charges.
Retail Theft / Shoplifting (18 Pa.C.S. § 3929)
Taking merchandise without paying, switching tags, or bypassing checkout. Prior history can raise a low-value case to a felony.
Access Device Fraud (18 Pa.C.S. § 4106)
Using someone else’s credit/debit card or account info without permission, or possessing counterfeit/altered cards. Grading depends on value and conduct.
Identity Theft (18 Pa.C.S. § 4120)
Using another person’s identifying information without consent for an unlawful purpose.
Organized Retail Theft (18 Pa.C.S. § 3929.3)
Coordinating or managing a theft scheme for resale. Often a felony at relatively modest dollar amounts.
How Does Pennsylvania Determine Theft Crime Penalties?
Pennsylvania decides how serious a theft charge is mostly by looking at the value of what was taken. The higher the value, the tougher the potential penalty. But there are also special rules. For example, if you stole a gun, or if the theft happened during a disaster, the charge is made more serious automatically, even if the dollar amount is low.
Below, are the theft penalties and their consequences. With an experienced lawyer, your case could result in a more favorable resolution than what’s listed.
-
Theft under $50
• Typical Grade: Misdemeanor 3
• Possible Penalties: Up to 1 year in jail; fines up to $2,500 -
Theft $50–<$200
• Typical Grade: Misdemeanor 2
• Possible Penalties: Up to 2 years in jail; fines up to $5,000 -
Theft $200–<$2,000
• Typical Grade: Misdemeanor 1
• Possible Penalties: Up to 5 years in jail; fines up to $10,000 -
Theft ≥$2,000 (non-firearm)
• Typical Grade: Felony 3
• Possible Penalties: Up to 7 years in prison; fines up to $15,000 -
Firearm theft (or certain disaster scenarios)
• Typical Grade: Felony 2
• Possible Penalties: Up to 10 years in prison; higher fines possible -
Retail theft — 1st offense, < $150
• Typical Grade: Summary
• Possible Penalties: Fine; possible short jail term in rare cases -
Retail theft — 2nd offense, < $150
• Typical Grade: Misdemeanor 2
• Possible Penalties: Up to 2 years in jail -
Retail theft — ≥$150 (1st/2nd offense)
• Typical Grade: Misdemeanor 1
• Possible Penalties: Up to 5 years in jail -
Retail theft — 3rd offense (any value)
• Typical Grade: Felony 3
• Possible Penalties: Up to 7 years in prison -
Access device fraud (by value)
• Typical Grade: Misdemeanor or Felony
• Possible Penalties: Graded by amount; aggregation of values allowed
What Are Some Consequences That I May Not Expect?
A theft record can affect:
- Background checks
- Job offers
- Professional licenses
- Leases
- Your immigration status
A theft charge isn’t only about fines or jail time. It can create lasting issues in your everyday life.
What Is a Civil Demand Letter?
After a shoplifting accusation, stores in Washington County often send a civil demand letter. This is separate from your criminal case. It’s the store—or its lawyers—asking for money to cover alleged losses, security costs, or fees. The amount can range from about $150 to several hundred dollars, even if the item was returned.
Receiving a civil demand letter does not mean you’re guilty, and paying it doesn’t automatically affect your criminal charges. With an experienced lawyer, you can decide whether it makes sense to pay, negotiate, or contest the demand while also protecting your rights in court.
What is the Step-by-Step Process in Washington County Theft Cases?
Knowing what comes next reduces stress and mistakes. Here’s how most Washington County cases progress:
Investigation & Charging
Police may arrest you at the scene, such as in a store, or file a criminal complaint later after reviewing reports and video. We intervene as early as possible, contacting the police or DA before charges are finalized. This can sometimes reduce the severity of charges filed or preserve opportunities for diversion.
Preliminary Arraignment (MDJ)
At this first court appearance, you’ll receive paperwork about your charges, bail conditions, and future court dates. We make sure your bail conditions are reasonable and push back against unnecessary restrictions. Our goal is to keep you out of jail while the case is pending.
Preliminary Hearing (Central Court)
Washington County uses a central-court model for many hearings, held at the Courthouse. A DA representative presents evidence, and Magisterial District Judges rotate monthly. This is often the most important early hearing. We cross-examine witnesses, challenge weak or hearsay evidence, and negotiate with the DA. Many cases can be dismissed, reduced, or steered toward diversion at this stage.
Formal Arraignment (Court of Common Pleas)
If the case is “held for court,” you’ll appear at the Court of Common Pleas (27th Judicial District). This is where deadlines for motions begin. We review all discovery with you, explain your rights, and prepare motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges where appropriate.
Pre-Trial & Motions
This stage involves reviewing police reports, surveillance, receipts, and witness statements. We may file motions to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence, improper identifications, or unreliable testimony. We look closely at how the value was determined, whether the video evidence can be trusted, and if the police respected your rights. Strong motions give us leverage in talks with the DA.
Negotiations / Diversion
Many cases resolve before trial through reduced charges, pleas to non-theft offenses, or entry into diversion programs like ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition). We advocate for ARD admission or push for lesser charges that won’t damage your record as severely. Our goal is to find a resolution that protects your future.
Trial
If your case goes to trial, it may be heard by a judge or jury. The DA must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We cross-examine witnesses, dispute value evidence, and highlight reasonable doubt. We shape a defense around your situation. That may mean showing you had no intent to steal, proving it was a case of mistaken identity, or exposing violations of your constitutional rights.
Don’t wait until the last step. Consulting a lawyer early can change the outcome of your case.
Will I Qualify for Diversion (ARD) If It’s My First Theft Charge?
If this is your first theft charge in Washington County, you may be considered for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). ARD is a program for certain first-time, non-violent cases. Instead of a conviction, you complete requirements like classes, community service, and restitution. When finished, your case can be dismissed and later expunged from your record.
Eligibility isn’t automatic. The District Attorney reviews the facts of your case, input from the alleged victim, and whether restitution can be made. With an experienced lawyer, you can put together the strongest possible application for ARD. If the DA doesn’t approve ARD, we pursue other options such as reduced charges or pleas that avoid lasting damage to your record.
Washington County Courts and Contacts
These resources may be useful as you handle a theft charge in Washington County. Always confirm times and addresses before you go to an appointment.
- Washington County Courthouse / Court of Common Pleas
Address: 1 S. Main St., Suite 2004, Washington, PA 15301
Phone: 724-228-6700
Hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m
Website: Washington County Courts
- Clerk of Courts (Criminal Records/Filings)
Address: 1 S. Main St., Suite 1005, Washington, PA 15301
Phone: 724-228-6787
Website: Washington County Clerk of Courts - Magisterial District Judges (MDJ) Directory
11 districts countywide. Central court for preliminary hearings held at the Courthouse.
Website: MDJ Guide & Directory - District Attorney
Address: 26 S. Main St., Washington, PA 15301
Phone: 724-228-6790
Website: Washington County District Attorney - Washington County Correctional Facility
Address: 100 W. Cherry Ave., Washington, PA 15301
Phone: 724-228-6845
Website: Washington County Correctional Facility
Further Reading
If you’re dealing with a theft charge in Washington County, you may find these pages helpful:
- Washington Office Location — Contact details, directions, and office information for our Washington County location.
- Preliminary Hearing in Pennsylvania — Learn what happens at a preliminary hearing and why it’s such a key stage in your case.
- Plea Negotiations & Agreements — See how charges can be reduced or resolved before trial.
- Probation Lawyer — Understand probation requirements and how violations are handled.
- Expungements — Find out how to clear your record after completing your case.
- Search & Seizure Laws — Learn when evidence can be challenged if police overstep their authority.
What Defense Strategies Do We Use in Local Theft Cases?
No two theft cases are the same, and that means there isn’t a one-size-fits-all defense. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we use a wide range of strategies depending on the charge, the evidence, and your goals.
Our job is to find the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to protect your record and your future.
- Value Challenges: We audit receipts, tags, and aggregation. Small errors can change grading significantly.
- Intent & Deception: Many theft charges require proof you intended to deprive or deceive. Misunderstandings, returns, or mistaken identity can undermine this.
- Possession vs. Knowledge: For receiving stolen property, the Commonwealth must prove knowledge (or belief) the item was stolen.
- Suppression & Exclusions: If a search or stop was unlawful, or if identification procedures were suggestive, we move to suppress.
- Store Practices: In retail theft, we examine loss-prevention methods, surveillance continuity, and witness vantage points.
- Points of Doubt: From receipts to surveillance to witness statements, we challenge every detail to build overlapping doubts about the allegations.
- And More: These strategies are just the tip of the iceberg. With experience in Washington County courts, we know how to uncover and use every possible defense available to you.
What Areas Do We Serve in Washington County?
We represent clients across the county, including:
- McMurray
- North Strabane Township
- Cecil Township
- Canonsburg
- Washington
- Peters Township
- South Strabane
- Chartiers
and nearby communities.
Need to meet close to home? Visit our Washington Office at 87 E Maiden St., Washington, PA 15301.
Why Choose Worgul, Sarna & Ness for a Theft Case in Washington County?
We bring a local, practical approach focused on results and your future. Our office is in Washington, minutes from the Courthouse. We know central-court procedure, how MDJ hearings unfold, and what moves the needle with local prosecutors and judges.
What you’ll get from us:
- Clear explanations of your charges and options.
- Early evidence review and motion practice aimed at creating leverage.
- Smart negotiations for reductions or diversion; trial-ready when needed.
- Help minimizing collateral damage (jobs, licenses, immigration, housing).
- Convenient local meetings at 87 E Maiden St., Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft in Washington County
Is shoplifting automatically a felony in Pennsylvania?
No. Retail theft is graded by value and prior offenses. A first offense under $150 is a summary; a third offense can be a felony even at low value.
What happens at a Washington County preliminary hearing?
The DA’s representative presents evidence to show probable cause. A Magisterial District Judge (in central court) decides whether to send the case to the Court of Common Pleas. It’s also a chance to negotiate or challenge weak evidence.
Can I get ARD for a first-time theft charge?
Possibly. ARD is available in appropriate circumstances, subject to recommendation and the judge’s discretion. Completion can position you for expungement.
What if I’m accused of using someone else’s card?
That’s often charged as access device fraud. The grading is based on amount, and the law allows aggregation of transactions. We examine authorizations, identity, and the alleged value.
Where do I find my court information or records?
Start with the Clerk of Courts (criminal records/filings) and the Washington County Courts website for contact details and directories.
Put a Washington County Theft Crimes Lawyer on Your Side
If you’ve been charged with theft in Washington County, timing and strategy matter. From MDJ court to trial, we’ll guide you through every step of a strong defense. Call 724-399-3491 or contact us to schedule a free, confidential consultation at our Washington office.
