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The Italian Job (2003) is a high-octane heist film that follows a group of skilled thieves as they execute a meticulously planned robbery to steal gold bullion. The movie is filled with action-packed sequences, including a daring heist in Venice, thrilling car chases through Los Angeles, and clever use of technology to pull off the perfect crime. While the film is set in various international locations, analyzing the criminal activities depicted in The Italian Job under Washington State law reveals the serious legal consequences that the characters would face if these events occurred in Washington. This article explores the key crimes committed in the movie and how they would be prosecuted under Washington law.

1. Theft (RCW 9A.56.030)

The central crime in The Italian Job is the theft of gold bullion. The heist involves stealing millions of dollars’ worth of gold bars from a heavily guarded safe. Under RCW 9A.56.030, theft in the first degree is defined as wrongfully obtaining or exerting unauthorized control over the property of another, with the intent to deprive the owner of it, when the value of the property exceeds $5,000.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, theft in the first degree is a class B felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. The theft of gold bullion depicted in The Italian Job would likely result in multiple counts of first-degree theft, given the immense value of the stolen goods. The masterminds behind the heist could face significant prison time and hefty fines if caught and prosecuted.

2. Burglary (RCW 9A.52.020)

The characters in The Italian Job gain access to the secure location where the gold is stored by using sophisticated technology to bypass security systems and physically break into the building. RCW 9A.52.020 defines burglary in the first degree as entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with intent to commit a crime therein, especially if the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon or assaults any person during the commission of the crime.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, first-degree burglary is a class A felony, punishable by up to life imprisonment and a fine of up to $50,000. The use of technology to break into the secure location and steal the gold would be classified as burglary in the first degree, leading to severe legal consequences for those involved.

3. Conspiracy to Commit a Crime (RCW 9A.28.040)

The heist in The Italian Job is the result of a carefully coordinated plan involving multiple individuals who each play a critical role in the execution of the crime. RCW 9A.28.040 addresses conspiracy, making it illegal for two or more persons to agree to commit a crime and take any overt step toward its commission.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, conspiracy to commit a crime is treated as a serious offense and is typically prosecuted alongside the underlying crime. The conspirators in The Italian Job would face additional charges of conspiracy to commit theft and burglary, further compounding their legal troubles.

4. Criminal Trespass (RCW 9A.52.070)

In addition to the primary crimes of theft and burglary, the characters in The Italian Job engage in criminal trespass by entering various private properties without permission, whether to set up the heist or to escape from law enforcement. RCW 9A.52.070 defines criminal trespass in the second degree as knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully in or upon the premises of another.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, criminal trespass in the second degree is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. While the penalty for criminal trespass is less severe than for theft or burglary, it would still result in additional charges for the characters involved in the heist.

5. Unlawful Use of a Vehicle (RCW 9A.56.070)

The film’s iconic Mini Cooper car chase scenes involve the unlawful use of vehicles to evade law enforcement and transport stolen goods. RCW 9A.56.070 addresses the unlawful use of a vehicle, which can include using a vehicle to facilitate the commission of a crime.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, the unlawful use of a vehicle in the commission of a crime could result in additional charges, particularly if the vehicles are used to transport stolen goods or evade police during the commission of the heist. These charges could be classified as a class C felony, carrying up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

6. Assault (RCW 9A.36.041)

During the heist and subsequent escape, there are several instances of physical altercations and the use of force against others, which could be classified as assault under Washington law. RCW 9A.36.041 defines assault in the fourth degree as harmful or offensive physical contact with another person.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, fourth-degree assault is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Any physical altercations that occur during the heist could lead to assault charges against the perpetrators, further increasing their legal liability.

7. Money Laundering (RCW 9A.83.020)

After stealing the gold, the characters in The Italian Job would likely need to find ways to convert the stolen bullion into usable currency without drawing attention from law enforcement. RCW 9A.83.020 makes it illegal to conduct financial transactions with proceeds derived from illegal activities, a crime known as money laundering.

  • Washington State Application: In Washington, money laundering is a class B felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. If the stolen gold were to be laundered in Washington, the individuals involved would face serious charges and significant penalties.

Conclusion

The Italian Job is a thrilling heist film that captures the excitement and danger of pulling off a large-scale robbery. However, if the events depicted in the movie took place under Washington State law, the characters would face a wide range of serious criminal charges, including theft, burglary, conspiracy, unlawful use of a vehicle, assault, and money laundering. These offenses carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences, substantial fines, and the possibility of life-altering criminal records.

While the film glorifies the thrill of the heist, it also serves as a reminder of the legal consequences that come with engaging in such activities. Understanding Washington’s legal framework is essential for recognizing the risks and responsibilities associated with criminal behavior.

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We are no-nonsense, relentless, fair, and honest. We are great listeners instead of fast talkers, that is just who we are. More than 20 years ago, Ken began practicing law with a deeply-seeded belief that every person has the right to the best legal representation available. He built his law firm on that belief. Another belief that he strongly adheres to is his fundamental belief that clients deserve respect, with no assumptions or preconceived notions.  If you or someone you know is accused of a crime or injured as a result of the negligence of another, please have them call us at 253-720-9304 or email us info@blanfordlaw.com

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