When a deal seems too good to be true in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, it generally is. Don’t get caught in possession of stolen property in Oklahoma or you can face serious consequences like jail time.
What is Possession of Stolen Property in Oklahoma?
Possession of stolen property in Oklahoma is a felony offense.
Okmulgee, Oklahoma law requires that you make a “reasonable inquiry” to ascertain that the person from whom you bought or received an item had the legal right to sell it or give it away. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1715
If an item in your possession turns out to be stolen, without proof that a reasonable inquiry was made, you are presumed to have knowledge that the item was stolen.
Any person who knowingly purchased stolen goods, regardless of its value, can face a $500 fine and up to five years in prison. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1713
What if You Find Lost Property?
Even if you find lost property, you have a duty under the law to make a reasonable inquiry or effort to find the true owner and restore the property to him. If you fail to make such reasonable inquiry, you could be charged with larceny or possession of stolen property in Oklahoma.
Larceny is defined as the taking of personal property, accomplished by fraud or stealth, and with intent to deprive another thereof. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1701
Depending on the value of the item, you could face serious penalties for larceny.
If you find a lost item, instead of appropriating the item as your own, you should seriously consider turning it over to the police instead.
Low-cost Consultation: Okmulgee Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or anyone you know is faced with a charge of possession of stolen property in Oklahoma, please contact an Okmulgee criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
Consult with an experienced attorney at the Wirth Law Office – Okmulgee today, by calling 918 756-9600 or toll free at 1-888-Wirth-Law (1-888-947-8452).
If you prefer, you can use the box in the upper right-hand corner of this page to send a question or brief message.
