What Is Larceny in Massachusetts?

Larceny is one of the most common theft-related charges in Massachusetts. It generally involves taking someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The seriousness of the charge depends largely on the value of the property involved.

If the value is over $1,200, the charge is typically a felony. If it is under that amount, it is usually a misdemeanor. Larceny can also include specific types of conduct such as shoplifting, stealing by false pretenses, or converting property that was initially obtained lawfully.

The Commonwealth must prove that you intended to steal the property at the time it was taken. That intent is often the key issue in these cases. Mistakes, misunderstandings, or lack of intent can be strong defenses, especially in situations involving shared property or unclear ownership.

Larceny charges can carry serious consequences, including jail time, probation, and restitution. Even a misdemeanor conviction can impact employment and background checks. Understanding how the charge works is the first step in building a defense.