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Cle Elum Municipal Court Code 9.20.040 addresses theft of property or services valued at $250 or less. This misdemeanor theft code applies to offenses that do not meet the criteria for felony theft. While the dollar amount involved may seem minor, being convicted under this municipal theft offense can lead to serious consequences.

What is Theft Under Cle Elum Code 9.20.040?

A person commits theft under this code when they intentionally take or retain property or services that belong to someone else without permission or lawful justification. The act must be carried out with the intent to deprive the owner of the property or services, either permanently or temporarily.

This municipal theft offense includes various scenarios, such as shoplifting, failure to pay for services (e.g., dining and dashing), or unauthorized use of utilities.

Key Elements of Section 9.20.040:

  • Value Threshold:
    The value of the stolen property or services must not exceed $250. If the value is greater, or if other criteria defined under Washington State law are met, the offense may escalate to felony theft.
  • Misdemeanor Classification:
    Theft under Cle Elum’s misdemeanor theft code is considered a lesser offense than felony theft but still carries consequences that can affect your future.
  • Theft of Property or Services:
    This section includes the unlawful taking of physical items as well as intangible services, broadening its applicability across different theft scenarios.

Potential Consequences of a Conviction:

Although classified as a misdemeanor, a conviction under Cle Elum’s theft code can result in:

  • Fines: Offenders may face financial penalties of up to $1,000.
  • Jail Time: Convictions can result in up to 90 days in jail, depending on the circumstances.
  • Permanent Criminal Record: Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can appear on your record, impacting job applications, housing opportunities, and other aspects of your life.

If you’ve been charged under Cle Elum Municipal Court Code 9.20.040 for theft of property or services, you need a knowledgeable advocate to protect your rights. An experienced attorney can guide you through the court process, ensuring you understand the charges and potential outcomes.

At Blanford Law, we specialize in handling misdemeanor theft offenses and other municipal court cases. Our team provides personalized representation to help mitigate the impact of these charges on your life. If you or someone you know is facing theft charges in Cle Elum, contact us today at 253-720-9304 or email info@blanfordlaw.com for expert legal advice.

Additional Resources

For other legal topics relevant to Cle Elum and Kittitas County, explore the following articles: