Felony theft is a serious charge in Iowa. If convicted, a defendant could face serious consequences, including a possible prison sentence. Because of that, it is important to take action to reduce or dismiss a criminal charge.
According to recent reports, a 20-year-old woman from Iowa City is facing the possibility of these consequences right now. She was arrested and locked up in the Johnson County Jail recently after police said they found her in possession of some items that were allegedly stolen in a burglary.
The woman was arrested in Coralville in the company of a male co-defendant. Police claim the two defendants were in possession of items worth $5,950, including an Xbox, a cello and a laptop, all supposedly taken from their owner in a burglary the day before. According to police, the owner of the items has identified them as the ones that were missing.
Prosecutors have charged the woman with second-degree theft. In Iowa this is a Class D felony. The woman could face a prison sentence of up to five years if she is convicted on this charge.
As in any criminal case, the prosecution has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution must prove every element of the crime charged, and if the defense is able to raise a reasonable doubt as to any essential element, the defendant should be acquitted.
It is important to remember that a person charged with a crime in Iowa has the right to an attorney and the right to defend themselves in court. Understanding these and other rights is critical to establishing a viable defense strategy.
Source: Iowa City Press-Citizen, "Iowa City woman accused of stealing cello, laptop," Stephen Gruber-Miller, Dec. 21, 2015
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