Property Crimes
Charges involving property offences such as break and enter, robbery, and mischief, can escalate quickly and often involve contested facts, circumstantial evidence, and significant penalties. These cases frequently turn on issues of intent, identity, or association with other alleged offenders.
Charges involving property offences such as break and enter, robbery, and mischief, can escalate quickly and often involve contested facts, circumstantial evidence, and significant penalties. These cases frequently turn on issues of intent, identity, or association with other alleged offenders.
At Stern Shapray Criminal Lawyers, we have extensive experience defending clients against a wide spectrum of property-related allegations, including:
Break and Enter into residential, commercial, or public premises
Robbery, including armed or aggravated robbery
Theft under or over $5,000 (shoplifting, employee theft, misappropriation)
Possession of stolen property
Mischief (vandalism, property damage, interference with use of property)
These cases may be prosecuted as indictable offences and carry significant consequences, especially if violence, weapons, or repeat offending is involved. However, many cases also involve misunderstandings, mistaken identity, or can be resolved through diversion or alternative measures.
Our defence strategy may include:
- Challenging eyewitness or surveillance evidence
- Asserting lack of intent or mistaken identity
- Arguing unlawful search, seizure, or arrest
- Negotiating charge withdrawals or peace bonds in lower-level matters
A conviction for a property crime can impact employment, housing, and immigration status. Early legal advice is essential, especially when charges arise from a larger investigation or involve co-accused individuals.