RECEIPT OF STOLEN PROPERTY 

In the State of Mississippi, it is a crime to receive stolen property. While some might think they are in the clear, because they didn’t know the property was stolen, that isn’t always good enough, in the eyes of the law. Where stolen property is concerned, there are two basic elements associated with the crime. First, were you in possession of the alleged stolen property? Second, did you know the goods were stolen? You might think it’s defensible that you didn’t know, but under reasonable circumstances, should you have known? Basically, did you get a deal that was too good to be true? Should you have known that the property was stolen? These are the issues that the prosecution is going to focus on.

Elements of the Crime

• In possession of stolen goods. 
• You knew or should have known the goods were stolen. 

Receiving Stolen Property in Mississippi

To receive stolen property in the State of Mississippi can be either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending upon the value of the goods in question. Whether you knew the items were stolen or not, the value involved can determine whether or not you’re facing relatively light charges and a few months in jail or a potentially lengthy sentence in a correctional facility. It’s important to note that charges associated with the initial theft are typically used in combination with charges of receiving stolen property in the same jurisdiction. No two cases are exactly the same though, so it’s important to speak with a skilled criminal attorney as soon as possible after an arrest to get the ball rolling on your defense.

Should You Have Known the Property Was Stolen?

Should you have known that the property in question was stolen? This is one of the big questions raised in most cases associated with receiving stolen property. Should you have known that an item was hot? Would a reasonable person have known the item was stolen? Unfortunately, a variety of circumstances can play into whether or not a reasonable person should have known an item was stolen or not. It’s not always as simple as knowing the appropriate resale value of an item. In some cases, it’s very clear that a deal is too good to be true, but in many cases, a multitude of mitigating factors could impact the potential street cash value of an item making it difficult for one to fully and accurately assess that item’s appropriate value.

Misdemeanor Receiving Stolen Property Charges

Charges associated with the receipt of stolen property can either be felonies or misdemeanors. If the value of the goods in question does not exceed $500.00 in value, you’re looking at a misdemeanor charge. In that case, your potential penalties could include up to six months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. Although the misdemeanor charge is considered a lesser charge and the penalties are substantially lighter if convicted, it’s still important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney about your case to ensure the best possible outcome.