Property Crimes:

What Are Property and Theft Offences?

Property and theft offences are criminal charges that generally involve allegations relating to property, ownership, possession, use, damage, fraud, or deception.

These offences can involve allegations that property was taken, damaged, concealed, altered, fraudulently obtained, unlawfully possessed, or used without authorization.

Some property offences involve allegations of theft or fraud, while others involve property damage, trespassing, possession of stolen property, or entering property without authorization.

Important Things to Know About Property and Theft Charges

• Property offences can range from relatively minor allegations to very serious criminal charges.
• The value of the property involved may affect the charge and possible penalties.
• Some offences involve allegations of dishonesty, deception, or fraud.
• Many property offences can result in a criminal record if a conviction occurs.
• Restitution orders may be requested in some cases.
• Employment, professional licensing, immigration status, and travel may be affected by certain convictions.
• The Crown prosecutor must prove every criminal charge beyond a reasonable doubt.

Common Property and Theft Offence Charges

Property and theft offences can include a wide range of criminal allegations.  The following pages provide additional information about many of the most common property-related charges in Ontario.

• Mischief / Vandalism
• Break and Enter
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
• Trespassing
• Theft Under $5,000
• Theft Over $5,000
• Shoplifting
• Fraud Under $5,000
• Fraud Over $5,000
• Credit Card Fraud
• Identity Theft
• Identity Fraud

Theft Offences

Theft offences generally involve allegations that property was taken without the owner's consent and with the intention of depriving the owner of that property.

The value of the property involved often affects how the offence is categorized.  Theft allegations may involve cash, merchandise, electronics, vehicles, tools, personal belongings, or other property.

• Theft Under $5,000
• Theft Over $5,000
• Shoplifting

Fraud and Financial Crime Offences

Fraud-related offences generally involve allegations that a person used deceit, falsehood, misrepresentation, or dishonest conduct to obtain money, property, services, or another benefit.

These offences can involve personal transactions, business dealings, financial accounts, identification information, credit cards, loans, or other financial matters.

• Fraud Under $5,000
• Fraud Over $5,000
• Credit Card Fraud
• Identity Theft
• Identity Fraud

Property Damage and Entry-Related Offences

Some criminal charges involve allegations that property was damaged, altered, interfered with, entered without authorization, or otherwise affected without lawful permission.

These allegations may involve homes, businesses, vehicles, construction sites, schools, public property, or private property.

• Mischief / Vandalism
• Break and Enter
• Trespassing

Possession of Property Offences

Possession-related offences can involve allegations that a person possessed, controlled, concealed, received, or dealt with property that was obtained through criminal activity.

These cases often involve issues relating to knowledge, ownership, possession, control, and the circumstances surrounding the property involved.

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime

Possible Consequences of Property and Theft Charges

The consequences of a property or theft-related charge depend on the offence, value involved, criminal history, surrounding circumstances, and the outcome of the case.

• Criminal record
• Probation
• Restitution orders
• Fines
• Community service
• Travel restrictions
• Immigration consequences
• Employment consequences
• Professional licensing consequences
• Imprisonment in some cases

Criminal Law Process & Resources

• Court Process for Criminal Charges – common steps from charge to resolution or trial
• Criminal Disclosure – evidence the Crown intends to rely on in court
• Bail Hearings – release from custody, bail plans, sureties, and court conditions
• Peace Bonds – court orders that may resolve or prevent certain criminal matters
• Legal Definitions and Criminal Law Terms – common criminal law terms explained in plain language
• Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges – answers to common criminal law questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Property and Theft Charges

What is the difference between theft and robbery?

Theft generally involves taking property without permission.  Robbery involves allegations of theft combined with violence, threats, force, or intimidation.

Can I receive a criminal record for a property offence?

A conviction for many property offences may result in a criminal record.

Does the value of the property matter?

Yes.  In many offences, the value involved can affect the charge, possible penalties, and how the case proceeds.

What is restitution?

Restitution is a court order requiring compensation for certain financial losses that resulted from an offence.

Can property offences affect employment?

Some property and fraud-related convictions may affect employment, professional licensing, security clearances, and future opportunities.

Can property offences affect immigration status?

For non-citizens, criminal charges and convictions may have immigration consequences and should be reviewed carefully.

Don't See Your Charge Listed?

The charges discussed on this website cover many common criminal offences in Ontario, but they do not cover every possible charge under the Criminal Code of Canada.

If you have been charged with an offence that is not listed, are facing multiple charges, have received a summons, appearance notice, undertaking, release order, probation order, or court date, contact Marketing.Legal™ for information about your situation.

Understanding your legal rights and options early can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary complications.

Key Takeaways

• Property and theft offences cover a broad range of criminal allegations involving property, ownership, fraud, damage, possession, and unauthorized use.
• The value involved and surrounding circumstances often affect how charges proceed.
• The Crown prosecutor must prove every criminal charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Many property offences can result in a criminal record if a conviction occurs.
• Possible consequences may include fines, restitution, probation, employment consequences, immigration consequences, and imprisonment.
• Property and theft charges often involve issues relating to ownership, possession, intent, identity, and credibility.
• Understanding the allegations and reviewing disclosure carefully can be important when assessing defence options.

Conclusion

Property and theft offences represent a significant category of criminal charges in Ontario.  These allegations can involve theft, fraud, identity-related offences, property damage, possession of stolen property, or unauthorized entry onto property.

Because the consequences of a conviction can affect many areas of a person's life, understanding the charge, reviewing the evidence, and considering available legal options are important steps in responding to a criminal allegation.

Every case depends on its own facts, evidence, circumstances, and legal issues.  Reviewing the specific offence page that applies to your situation can provide additional information about the charge and court process involved.