What determines whether a theft charge is classified as a misdemeanor or felony?

The classification of a theft charge as a misdemeanor or felony primarily hinges on the value of the property stolen. In many jurisdictions, including Arizona, the law distinguishes between different levels of theft based on the monetary worth of the items involved.

For instance, if the property stolen falls below a certain value threshold defined by state law, the offense may be categorized as a misdemeanor. Conversely, if the value exceeds that threshold, the charge escalates to a felony. This system underscores the idea that more serious penalties should be reserved for more significant losses, reflecting the economic impact and deterrent needs of theft offenses.

Other factors, such as the type of property or the offender's previous record, might influence sentencing or specific legal considerations but do not fundamentally change the initial classification based strictly on the theft's monetary value. Therefore, focusing on the value of the property directly aligns with the legal framework assessing theft severity.