St. Paul Theft & Fraud Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been accused of theft, shoplifting, or fraud in Minnesota, you’re likely facing serious consequences—including jail time, heavy fines, and permanent damage to your record. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can affect employment, housing, and future opportunities.
At DeVore Law Office, I provide aggressive, strategic defense for individuals throughout St. Paul and the Twin Cities facing property crimes and white collar offenses. With over 20 years of criminal law experience, I know how to challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your rights and reputation.
Theft Crimes in Minnesota
Under Minnesota Statutes § 609.52, theft includes a wide range of offenses involving the unlawful taking or use of another person’s property. Common theft-related charges include:
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Shoplifting / Retail Theft
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Employee Theft / Embezzlement
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Auto Theft
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Receiving Stolen Property
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Burglary (involving theft)
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Theft by Swindle
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Theft of Services or Utilities
Penalties for Theft in Minnesota
Penalties depend on the value of the property stolen and whether it’s a first or repeat offense:
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Under $500 – Misdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 fine
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$500–$1,000 – Gross misdemeanor: up to 1 year in jail and $3,000 fine
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Over $1,000 – Felony: up to 5+ years in prison and thousands in fines
Aggravating factors—like using a weapon, targeting vulnerable victims, or stealing government property—can lead to enhanced charges.
Fraud Charges in Minnesota
Fraud is a category of white collar crime that involves deception for financial gain. These are often charged as felonies and prosecuted aggressively in state and federal court.
Common fraud-related offenses include:
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Credit Card Fraud
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Identity Theft
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Welfare or Insurance Fraud
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Forgery
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Check Fraud / Bad Checks
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Unemployment Benefits Fraud
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Bank or Wire Fraud
Consequences of Fraud Convictions
Penalties may include:
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Felony record
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Prison time (up to 20 years for some cases)
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Restitution and fines
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Loss of professional licenses
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Federal charges in certain cases
Theft Attorneys & Fraud Defense Lawyers in Minnesota
Even if your experience in the criminal justice system has been limited, you undoubtedly have heard the stories of attorneys who simply do not seem to have the time necessary to devote to their clients and to cases they are handling. This is never an issue with Kevin DeVore and his team.
We are 100% committed to every client we represent. You won’t be wondering what is going on with your case. You won’t be worrying that your legal counsel is not up to the task or working on your case. You won’t have to arrange to meet your attorney in a courthouse hallway to get updates on your case.
Our commitment and dedication will be obvious from your initial consultation through the final disposition of your case. We will be at your side the entire way. You will know that you have a thoroughly committed criminal defense lawyer standing with you through the entire process.
Contact Kevin DeVore For A Free Case Evaluation
Kevin has espoused the concept of being an attorney who provides both small firm commitment and big firm expertise. He is committing to helping you get through the legal maze as effectively as possible. Kevin and his colleagues understand and sympathize with your situation. Our law firm will commit tirelessly to your case. You will never be left wondering what is on the horizon … you will know what is happening with your case at all times and you will understand fully the intensive defense that our firm will mount on your behalf.
If you are facing a theft or fraud charge, you can speak immediately to Minnesota theft fraud lawyer Kevin DeVore at 651-435-6500. We will schedule a no-charge initial consultation at a time and place that is convenient for you. Kevin DeVore has an office in Woodbury, Minnesota and helps clients throughout the metro including surrounding St. Paul, Lake Elmo, and Oakdale.