Theft in the First Degree (9A.56.030):
Washington State law defines Theft in the 1st Degree as the theft of property or services with a value of over $5,000 or the theft of property of any value when taken from the person of another.
Penalties
Theft 1st Degree is a Class B Felony which is punishable by up to a maximum of 10 years in jail and/or a $20,000 fine. In reality, the penalties that would be imposed in the event of a conviction for a theft crime are determined by the Sentencing Reform Act, RCW 9.94A and the Washington State Sentencing Guidelines.
Theft in the Second Degree (9A.56.040):
Washington State law defines Theft in the 2nd Degree as the theft of property or services with a value of over $750 and up to $5,000, or the theft of a public record, writing, or instrument kept, filed, or deposited according to law with or in the keeping of any public office or public servant; or the theft of an access device.
Penalties
Theft 2nd Degree is a Class C Felony which is punishable by up to a maximum of 5 years in jail and/or a $10,000 fine. In reality, the penalties that would be imposed in the event of a conviction for a theft crime are determined by the Sentencing Reform Act, RCW 9.94A and the Washington State Sentencing Guidelines.
