I was wondering if an assault charge was worse than a theft charge when the items taken were under $500?

Question

I was wondering if an assault charge was worse than a theft charge when the items taken were under $500?

Anonymous Oct 12, 2014 8 views 3 answers

My client drunkedly stole items through a PC and it was just a few pictures, he was confronted and assaulted. So i'm wondering what could happen in this situation?

teve Daniel SantiagoCriminal Defense AttorneyBradenton, FL · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T12:23:45+00:00

Your client may be charged with theft. (And his having been drunk will not preclude him from being charged.) The person who assaulted him may also be facing criminal charges. You should strongly consider speaking to an experience criminal defense attorney in your area.

James Yeargan · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T12:23:45+00:00

Both charges are misdemeanors so one isn't really worse than the other. However, with an assault charge the "victim" is usually interested in prosecuting the case.

Larry Wilcutt FoucheCriminal Defense AttorneyMacon, GA · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T12:23:45+00:00

It is hard to tell from the question if the assault charge was aggravated or just simple battery. Aggravated assault carries a 20 year sentence. Simple battery is a misdemeanor which is 12 months or $1,000. The theft charge, under $500.00 is a misdemeanor - that is - 12 months or $1,000.

I was wondering if an assault charge was worse than a theft charge when the items taken were under $500?

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