What NOT to Say to Police in South Dakota Theft, Burglary, or Robbery Cases
Many people mistakenly believe that cooperating fully with police officers will help clear up a misunderstanding quickly. Unfortunately, that assumption can create serious problems during a criminal investigation. If police ask you any questions about what happened, assert your Miranda rights to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer right away.
Wyoming’s House Bill 112 and the ‘Five Strikes’ Rule
In Wyoming, lawmakers have recognized the need to address the issue of repeat offenders in regard to theft-related crimes. As a result, House Bill 112, commonly referred to as the ‘Five Strikes’ Rule, has been proposed to tackle this problem.
Cheyenne Police Launch “Lock It or Lose It” Campaign
Property crime is a major issue in Cheyenne and other cities in Wyoming. In 2021, as of December 8, police officers had responded to 394 stolen vehicle reports, representing a 104% increase over the previous year, as stated in a Cheyenne Police Department news release. The department recently launched a “Lock It or Lose It” campaign to encourage citizens to lock up their valuables, vehicles, and homes.
The Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Theft
Within the state of Wyoming, theft crimes can range from shoplifting to grand theft auto, but very few residents understand the exact ramifications of each crime. These cases can become rather complex, with the difference in charges being based on the value of the stolen property to whether or not a firearm was involved. Altogether, theft crimes can be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, but what exactly is the difference and how can it affect you?