Arizona Theft Crimes Overview

Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13, Chapter 18 categorizes theft offenses into a variety of classifications based on the nature of the crime, the value of property or services taken, and the method used.

These classifications cover a range of theft offenses, from shoplifting and simple theft to more complex crimes like forgery, fraud, and money laundering. At Guardian Law, we handle theft cases across this spectrum, with a focus on providing strong defenses for our clients in each unique area.

Shoplifting (ARS 13-1805)

Under ARS 13-1805, shoplifting includes taking items from a retail store without paying, altering price tags, or concealing items to avoid detection. The classification of shoplifting, whether a misdemeanor or felony, depends on the value of the stolen items and circumstances like prior convictions. Arizona law also grants merchants the right to detain suspected shoplifters under specific guidelines.

Burglary (ARS 13-1506 to ARS 13-1508)

Burglary, covered under ARS 13-1506 to ARS 13-1508, involves unauthorized entry into a building or residence with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Arizona law classifies burglary into three degrees, with first-degree burglary (involving weapons or residential entry) carrying the most severe penalties, down to third-degree burglary for non-residential structures. The degree of the burglary offense affects both the classification and potential sentence.

Robbery (ARS 13-1902)

Robbery, defined under ARS 13-1902, involves taking property directly from another person through intimidation, threats, or force, making it a more severe offense than typical theft. It is classified as a Class 4 felony, but penalties increase for aggravated robbery or armed robbery when weapons or accomplices are involved. Robbery charges can result in substantial prison time due to the crime’s violent nature.

Theft of Means of Transportation (ARS 13-1814)

Theft of a vehicle, known as “theft of means of transportation” and specified in ARS 13-1814, involves the unlawful taking of another person’s vehicle with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Classified as a Class 3 felony, this offense carries significant penalties, including potential prison time, and is taken seriously under Arizona law, especially when intent to permanently possess the vehicle is evident.

Forgery (ARS 13-2002)

Forgery, under ARS 13-2002, involves creating, altering, or using falsified documents, such as fake IDs or checks, with intent to deceive or defraud. Generally classified as a Class 4 felony, forgery penalties can be severe and are influenced by the type of document altered and its intended use. Arizona courts take these cases seriously, especially when forgery impacts businesses, individuals, or public entities.

Check Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Credit Card Fraud (ARS 13-1807 and ARS 13-2310)

Fraud crimes, including check fraud (ARS 13-1807), wire fraud, and credit card fraud (ARS 13-2310), involve deceitful financial actions such as writing bad checks, unauthorized electronic transfers, or illegal credit card use. These offenses are typically classified as Class 4 or 5 felonies, with penalties increasing based on the amount involved and frequency of the fraudulent actions.

Money Laundering (ARS 13-2317)

Money laundering, covered under ARS 13-2317, involves concealing or disguising the origins of illegally obtained funds, often by passing them through legitimate business channels. This offense is typically classified as a Class 2 or 3 felony, with penalties that increase based on the amount laundered and the complexity of the operation. 

In Arizona, theft charges are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies based on the value of the property or services taken and the circumstances surrounding the offense.

Misdemeanor theft, typically involving property valued at less than $1,000, is considered a lesser offense and may result in penalties such as fines, restitution, and up to six months in jail. However, felony theft involves higher-value property or specific conditions, such as theft of means of transportation or using intimidation, and carries significantly harsher consequences.

Felony theft classifications range from Class 6 felonies for lower-value items to Class 2 felonies for organized retail theft or property worth over $25,000. Convictions can result in extensive prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Each type of theft offense in Arizona comes with specific penalties based on the offense’s classification, the value of the property involved, and the circumstances surrounding the crime. Below are the penalties associated with the main types of theft crimes in Arizona.

Each charge level brings increasing fines and potential prison time, reflecting the severity of higher-value theft or aggravated circumstances. Guardian Law works to reduce these penalties by challenging evidence, negotiating pleas, and, where possible, pursuing case dismissals to protect clients’ futures.

Understanding theft charges in Arizona can be challenging, especially with common misconceptions about how these laws work. Here are five frequently asked questions to help clarify what you need to know about theft offenses in Arizona.

Facing theft charges can be overwhelming, and it often brings real-world challenges that go beyond just legal concerns. Maybe a quick decision in a store led to a shoplifting charge, or an impulsive financial mistake now has serious consequences. In these moments, having a skilled and understanding defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

Attorney Christian Lueders, founder of Guardian Law, understands what’s at stake. With years of experience as a former felony prosecutor for Maricopa County, Christian has handled hundreds of cases—everything from minor theft offenses to complex, high-stakes situations like money laundering and fraud. His background means he knows how the other side thinks and what strategies work best when defending clients against theft charges.

Christian’s real-world knowledge extends beyond just legal theory; he’s worked with law enforcement, forensic experts, and financial specialists, all of which help him approach cases with a broad perspective. Whether it’s a shoplifting charge, credit card fraud, or theft of transportation, Christian knows that each case is unique and requires a defense strategy built around the details of your story.