If you buy stolen goods in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, beware that the law doesn’t just punish the thief; the state sometime punishes the purchaser. This is referred to as “possession of stolen property Oklahoma” and may result in either a felony or misdemeanor charge. If you or someone you know has been charged with possession of stolen property Oklahoma, contact an experienced Tahlequah attorney today.
Purchasing Stolen Goods
When a purchaser knows or has reason to know that an item was stolen, embezzled, obtained by false pretense, or robbery, it is illegal to purchase that item for any price.
Even if the purchaser did not know the goods were stolen, Oklahoma also criminalizes purchasing items that were stolen, embezzled, obtained by false pretenses, or robbery if the purchaser did not make a reasonable inquiry into the origin of the goods.
This means that if you fail to ask about how the seller acquired potentially stolen goods and they were actually stolen, you may be charged with possession of stolen property. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1713
Penalties For Possession of Stolen Property Oklahoma
Anyone convicted of possession of stolen property Oklahoma charges could be convicted of a misdemeanor in Tahlequah. This is punishable by up to a year in jail.
A felony conviction, which is punishable by up to five years in state prison, is also a possibility depending upon the severity of the case.
Low-cost Initial Consultation: Tahlequah Theft Defense Lawyer
A conviction of possession of stolen property can carry lengthy prison sentences and fines.
If you or someone you know is facing this charge, please contact a Tahlequah criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
For a low-cost consultation, call Wirth Law Office – Tahlequah at 918-458-2677 or toll free at 1-888-447-7262.
