The holiday season is meant for generosity, but sometimes what starts as a gift exchange can lead to unexpected and serious theft accusations. If you're facing criminal charges right after Christmas or the New Year, it can be an incredibly stressful and confusing time. There's shock and uncertainty that come with being accused of theft.
The Unexpected Rise of Post-Holiday Theft Accusations
It's unfortunate, but accusations of theft often spike after the holidays. These issues frequently revolve around:
Disputes over ownership: A gift recipient believes the item is theirs, but the gift-giver or a third party claims it was only lent, was taken back, or was never intended for the recipient.
Property held for another: An individual may be holding property for someone else, and a misunderstanding leads to an accusation that they are trying to keep or sell the item.
Misunderstanding of “return” policies: Sometimes, returning a gift without proper authorization or documentation can lead to an accusation of shoplifting or fraud.
Regardless of how a theft accusation has arisen, the legal system takes these charges seriously. You need an advocate on your side to protect your reputation and freedom.
What to Do Immediately After a Theft Accusation
If you are contacted by law enforcement or formally accused of a theft crime following the holidays, your immediate actions are crucial:
Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent: Politely tell the officer you will not answer any questions without your attorney present. Remember, anything you say can be used against you.
Do Not Resist or Argue: Cooperate with the legal process without admitting guilt or trying to explain your side of the story to the police.
Contact an Attorney: The moments immediately following an accusation are critical. You need to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. We will launch a thorough investigation and begin determining a strong defense strategy for your case.
The Severity of Theft Charges in Oklahoma
The penalties for theft in Oklahoma depend heavily on the value of the property involved and the specific circumstances of the case. Crimes range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and a conviction can lead to significant fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record, which can impact future employment and housing opportunities.
Our role at Hunsucker Legal Group is to meticulously analyze the evidence—including police reports, witness statements, and video evidence—to challenge the prosecution’s case. Our founding attorney brings an elite, specialized approach to all criminal defense matters, utilizing deep legal knowledge to aggressively defend your rights.
When facing a theft crime or any other criminal charge, experience matters. Don't leave your case to chance.
Call us at (405) 544-2992 now for a free case evaluation.
