Yes, Oklahoma law allows charges against you if you knowingly receive stolen property. You don’t have to commit the actual theft to face legal consequences. When you buy, accept, or possess items that you know, or have reason to believe, came from theft, the law holds you accountable. Prosecutors only need to show that you had knowledge or reasonable suspicion about the property’s origin.
How Oklahoma defines receiving stolen property
State law includes receiving stolen property as a theft-related offense. You don’t need to get caught stealing to face charges. When you hold items stolen by someone else, and evidence points to your knowledge or suspicion of their origin, the state can press charges. The law applies to any transfer, like a purchase, gift, or trade, if the property came from theft.
What prosecutors must prove
Prosecutors build a case by showing that someone stole the property, you received it, and you knew, or reasonably should have known, it came from theft.. Circumstantial evidence, like unusually low prices or lack of receipts, can signal knowledge. Courts often consider your actions and the context rather than looking for direct proof or a confession.
Penalties for receiving stolen property
The value of the stolen property determines the penalty. According to Oklahoma statute, §21-1713v1, if the property exceeds $1,000, you face a felony charge, which may lead to prison and fines. Lower values can bring misdemeanor charges, which still involve jail time and fines. Repeated offenses or holding multiple stolen items can result in harsher consequences.
Why suspicious deals can lead to charges
Informal purchases often carry legal risks. Buying items without verifying ownership or asking for receipts increases your exposure to criminal charges. Extremely low prices or missing documentation may signal that the goods were stolen. Choosing not to proceed with questionable deals helps you avoid these situations.
