A theft or property crime charge can follow you long after the case is over — affecting your job, your housing, your reputation, and your future. In Minnesota, even a first offense can mean a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been charged with theft or a property crime in St. Paul or anywhere in the Twin Cities, you don’t have to face it alone.

At Duffy Defense, PLLC, we provide aggressive, compassionate representation to people accused of theft and property offenses throughout Ramsey County and greater Minnesota. We understand what’s at stake, and we work to protect your rights, your record, and your future. Call 651-259-1148 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Theft and Property Crimes We Defend in Minnesota

Minnesota law covers a broad range of theft and property offenses, from minor shoplifting to serious felony charges. Our firm defends clients against charges including but not limited to:

• Theft and shoplifting (Minn. Stat. § 609.52) — unlawfully taking or keeping someone else’s property, including retail theft
• Burglary (Minn. Stat. § 609.582) — entering a building without consent intending to commit a crime inside
• Receiving or possessing stolen property (Minn. Stat. § 609.53)
• Motor vehicle theft and unauthorized use of a vehicle
• Criminal damage to property (Minn. Stat. § 609.595) — vandalism and destruction of another’s property
• Organized retail theft (Minn. Stat. § 609.522)
• Check fraud, financial fraud, and related offenses

No matter the charge, the sooner you involve an attorney, the more options you have to protect yourself.

How Minnesota Classifies Theft Charges

In Minnesota, the seriousness of a theft charge usually depends on the value of the property involved. The higher the value, the steeper the potential penalties — and a prior record can elevate a charge further. Current penalty ranges under § 609.52 include:

• $500 or less: misdemeanor — up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine
• More than $500 up to $1,000: gross misdemeanor — up to 364 days in jail and/or a $3,000 fine
• More than $1,000 up to $5,000: felony — up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine
• More than $5,000: felony — up to 10 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine
• More than $35,000 (or theft of a firearm): felony — up to 20 years in prison and/or a $100,000 fine

Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction often comes with court-ordered restitution and lasting collateral consequences — which is why an early, strategic defense matters so much.

What’s Really at Stake With a Property Crime Conviction

The penalties handed down in court are only part of the picture. A theft or property crime conviction can quietly affect the rest of your life:

• A permanent criminal record that shows up on background checks
• Difficulty finding or keeping a job, especially in roles involving money or trust
• Problems securing housing or loans
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Damage to your personal and professional reputation

Prosecutors in Ramsey County take these cases seriously. You should have someone equally serious in your corner.

How Duffy Defense Builds Your Defense

Every case is different, and so is every defense. We examine the details of your situation to find the strongest path forward. Depending on your case, that may include:

Challenging the Evidence

We scrutinize how the alleged theft was investigated — whether the property’s value was correctly assessed, whether surveillance or witness identification is reliable, and whether the evidence actually proves intent.

Questioning Intent

Many theft charges require proof that you intended to permanently deprive someone of their property. A genuine misunderstanding, a claim of right, or a mistake can be a powerful defense.

Protecting Your Constitutional Rights

If police conducted an unlawful search, stop, or interrogation, we move to suppress any evidence obtained in violation of your rights — which can weaken or end the prosecution’s case.

Negotiating for Reduced Charges or Alternatives

When appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, diversion programs, or outcomes that keep a conviction off your record and protect your future.

Why Choose Duffy Defense

Attorney Alec Duffy is a third-generation attorney who has built his practice on standing up for people accused of crimes in St. Paul and across Minnesota. Recognized as one of the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys Under 40 in Minnesota by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, a SuperLawyers “Rising Star” in 2025 – 2026, and named a Top Attorney by Minnesota Monthly Magazine in 2024, 2025, and 2026. Alec brings skill, dedication, and genuine care to every client he represents.

When you work with Duffy Defense, you’re not a case number. You’re a person facing a difficult moment — and you’ll have an advocate committed to the best possible outcome for your life.

Contact a St. Paul Theft Crimes Attorney Today

If you’ve been charged with theft or a property crime, time matters. Evidence needs to be preserved, deadlines need to be met, and the right defense strategy needs to start now. Don’t let one moment define your future.

Call Duffy Defense, PLLC at 651-259-1148 or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential consultation. We serve clients in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and throughout the Twin Cities metro.