Chances are you’ve heard the term “larceny” mentioned as a spectator, whether in news stories, police reports, social media posts, or your favorite crime drama series. But if you’re facing charges of larceny, it’s important to know what is considered larceny in South Carolina and what kind of punishments it can carry.

What is Larceny?

In South Carolina, larceny is defined as unlawfully taking property that belongs to another person, without force, and with the intent to permanently deprive that person of the property. In other words, larceny is the legal term for the non-violent theft of someone else’s personal property without the intent to ever give it back. 

It should be noted that larceny is always carried out without the use of force or violence. Theft carried out by force is usually either categorized as armed robbery or strong armed robbery, which are completely different charges. Most often, larceny is committed while the actual owner of the property isn’t even present.

It should also be noted that it is essential for a prosecutor to prove intent in a larceny case. Taking someone else’s property without their knowledge, but with plans to return it, is not considered larceny, but instead borrowing without permission. While not a great thing to do, this is not usually considered a crime except in special circumstances.

Larceny can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. 

Types of Larceny

Typically, larceny charges in South Carolina fall under one of two categories as laid out in South Carolina Code of Laws Section 16-13-30: petit larceny or grand larceny. Like most states, South Carolina differentiates larceny charges based on the value of the stolen property: 

• Petit larceny: Sometimes referred to as “petty larceny” or “petty theft”, petit larceny is larceny where the stolen property is valued at under $2000. 
• Grand larceny: Larceny where the stolen property is valued over $2000 is categorized as grand larceny under South Carolina law.

Charges, Penalties, & Consequences

Larceny charges vary in severity and consequences, depending what category the larceny falls into. 

Petit larceny is a misdemeanor charge that is tried in Magistrates Court or Municipal Court, South Carolina’s lesser courts. A conviction of petit larceny can carry a penalty of up to 30 days in jail or a fine of up to $1000. 

As a more serious crime, grand larceny is a felony charge that is tried in General Sessions court. A grand larceny conviction is divided into two different categories for sentencing:

• If the stolen property is valued as more than $2000 but less than $10,000, a conviction carries up to a five-year prison sentence or a fine in an amount that is at the court’s discretion. This is a Class F felony.
• If the stolen property is valued at more than $10,000, a conviction carries up to a 10-year prison sentence or a fine in an amount that is at the court’s discretion. This is a Class E felony.

SeiferFlatow Is On Your Side

If you’re facing charges of larceny in South Carolina, you’ll want a knowledgeable criminal attorney on your side to help you build a solid defense. The legal team at SeiferFlatow understands that even just an accusation of larceny can have a negative impact on your life and will fight on your behalf to deliver the best possible outcome for you. Contact our South Carolina office to schedule a consultation.