Protecting Your Rights Against Serious Allegations

Being accused of theft or a property crime can have a lasting impact on your reputation, employment, and future opportunities. Even minor, misdemeanor theft charges can appear on your background check and ruin future opportunities for you for years. Whether you’ve been accused of shoplifting, burglary, or embezzlement, you deserve a defense that is focused on protecting your rights and your future.

At Emily Shouse, Criminal Defense Attorney, I represent individuals across Connecticut who are facing all types of theft and property-related charges. My approach combines experience, detailed legal knowledge and a commitment to allowing your side of the story to be heard.

Types of Theft and Property Crimes in Connecticut

Connecticut law covers a wide range of offenses involving the taking, damaging, or unlawful possession of property. These charges can often be confusing and complicated to differentiate. I represent clients charged with the following and more:

• Larceny (1st-6th degree)

• Shoplifting and Retail Theft

• Burglary

• Criminal Trespass

• Robbery and Armed Robbery

• Possession of Stolen Property

• Forgery, Fraud, or Identity Theft

• Credit Card or Check Theft

• Criminal Mischief or Property Damage

• Embezzlement or Employee Theft

Each case is different depending on the value and type of property involved and the circumstances involving the alleged taking, damaging, or possessing of that property. These factors determine whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony.

Penalties for Theft and Property Crimes

Theft and property crime penalties in Connecticut are determined by the degree of the offense and the value of the property. For example, Larceny in the Sixth Degree is charged when the value of the property is under $500 and this is considered a Class C misdemeanor, which carries less severe penalties. Larceny in the First Degree is charged when the value of the property is over $20,000 and is considered a Class B Felony, which carries much harsher penalties. Burglary and Robbery charges are often felonies and carry possible jail time and probation. Many property and theft related crimes carry penalties that also include restitution and fines.

Aside from possible jail time, probation, restitution, and fines, these types of crimes have lasting long-term consequences, including:

• Difficulty finding employment

• Complications with housing

• Immigration issues

• Loss of professional licenses

• Damage to personal and professional reputation

Defense Strategies for Theft and Property Crime Cases

I believe that every story has more than one side. In many cases, theft or property allegations involve misunderstanding, mistaken identity, or evidence that doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.

Depending on your case, possible defenses may include:

• Lack of intent to steal or defraud

• Mistaken identity or false accusation

• Ownership or right to possession

• Insufficient or unreliable evidence

• Police misconduct or constitutional violations

My role is to ensure your rights are protected at every stage, from investigation to final disposition, whether that be through negotiations, plea deals, programs, or trial.

Early Intervention Matters

If you’ve been contacted by police or believe you’re under investigation for a theft or property crime, getting legal representation before arrest or formal charges can make a major difference. Early involvement can help prevent mistakes, preserve evidence, and sometimes even stop charges from being filed at all.

Why Choose Emily Shouse Criminal Defense

• Experienced Connecticut criminal defense attorney

• Personalized strategy for each case, not a one-size-fits-all approach

• Open communication and judgment-free representation

• Proven results in theft, larceny, and property crime cases

When your future is on the line, I will fight to protect your rights, your record, and your reputation.

If you or someone you know is facing theft or property charges, don’t wait to get help. Contact Emily Shouse, Criminal Defense Attorney today for a free, confidential consultation.