Common Examples Of Petty Crimes in PA And Their Consequences
Have you ever been stopped for a traffic ticket? Perhaps you were caught underage drinking when you were younger. Maybe you were caught by security in the mall for petty theft. These violations, known as petty crimes, are smaller criminal offenses that don’t always carry serious consequences. However, there are situations in which when these minor offenses are committed together, they become more serious crimes in the legal system.
In this blog post, we will discuss common examples of petty crimes in Pennsylvania and the punishments for these petty crime examples. Additionally, we will talk about how when these petty offenses are committed together or you become a repeat offender, they are further prosecuted in a court of law.
What Does a Petty Crime Mean in Pennsylvania?
First, it’s important to understand what is considered a petty crime in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania law defines a petty offense as a “summary offense,” which does not provide for imprisonment or probation as punishments. This means that if you are charged with a petty offense in PA, you may only face fines and other penalties, but not jail time or probation.
Petty Crimes vs. Gross Misdemeanors and Felonies
In Pennsylvania, the line between petty crimes and more serious offenses, such as gross misdemeanors and felonies, is marked by the severity of the punishments they carry.
While petty crimes are at the lowest end of the criminal offense spectrum attracting mainly fines and no incarceration, gross misdemeanors step up the scale significantly. A gross misdemeanor is punishable not only by heftier fines but also by the potential for jail time.
A felony, the most serious type of crime, can lead to long-term imprisonment and substantial fines. Distinctions are important in the criminal justice system because they determine not only the legal consequences you may face but also the long-term impact on your personal and professional life. This includes things like the potential for a criminal record that could affect your future employment and other opportunities.
Common Petty Crime Examples in PA
In the following section, we’ll explore several typical examples of petty crimes in Pennsylvania. The vast majority of these petty offenses, while considered less severe, still hold repercussions that can ripple throughout your daily life, highlighting the importance of understanding and sticking to the law.
From the relatively common offenses to the more specific violations, each carries its own set of legal consequences. Let’s delve into some of these petty crimes and their potential impacts on you if you commit them.
Traffic Offenses
Traffic violations such as speeding, running a red light or stop sign, and reckless driving are common examples of petty crimes in Pennsylvania. Many first-time offenders squeeze by with a simple citation. However, if severe enough, these offenses can result in fines and points on your driver’s license, which can lead to license suspension if accumulated enough.
Consequences for Repeat Traffic Offenders in PA
If you repeatedly commit traffic offenses, the state of Pennsylvania enforces stricter penalties. Repeat offenders can expect progressively severe consequences, such as increased fines, higher points on their driver’s licenses, mandated driver’s education courses, and in some cases, license suspension or revocation.
The Commonwealth takes a firm stance against regular violators with the intent to prevent persistent disregard for traffic laws, which could compromise the safety of all road users. In the most severe cases, repeat offenses could lead to a misdemeanor charge, particularly when the infractions involve endangerment to the public.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is another common petty crime example in PA. This includes any behavior that disrupts the peace, such as public intoxication, causing a disturbance in public, or fighting.
While disorderly conduct may not seem like a serious offense, it can still result in large fines. Additionally, a conviction for disorderly conduct could also appear on your criminal record, affecting future employment prospects.
Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Disorderly Conduct Offenses
In Pennsylvania, repeatedly facing charges for disorderly conduct can result in more stringent penalties. If you’re repeatedly being convicted of disorderly conduct, you run the risk of receiving higher fines, and potentially jail sentences.
Underage Drinking
Underage drinking is also considered a petty crime in Pennsylvania. If caught consuming alcohol under the age of 21, you may face fines and potentially have your driver’s license suspended. Additionally, a conviction for underage drinking could also appear on your criminal record.
Consequences for Repeat Offenses of Underage Drinking
For repeat offenses of underage drinking, the penalties become progressively more severe. In addition to higher fines and a potential jail sentence, you may also be required to attend alcohol education classes or perform community service as part of your sentence.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting, or petty theft, is a common example of a petty crime. It’s referred to as petty theft or petty larceny and is a summary offense in Pennsylvania. If caught with a stolen item valued under $50, you may face fines and potentially community service.
Penalties for Repeat Shoplifting Offenders in Pennsylvania
For those with prior convictions of shoplifting in Pennsylvania, the penalties also become harsher with the number of offenses. A second shoplifting conviction can result in penalties that include a rise in fines, and these fines can be substantial depending on the value of the item stolen.
Additionally, there may be increased community service requirements with each offense. In cases involving higher-valued items—generally over $50—a repeat offense can elevate the charge to a misdemeanor, potentially leading to jail time.
Habitual offenders may even face felony charges, which carry the possibility of years in prison, reflecting the state’s commitment to deterring repetitive criminal behavior.
When You Need A Reliable Criminal Lawyer in Lancaster, PA, Turn To Marinaro Law
If you’re facing conviction for one of these examples of petty crimes in Lancaster, PA, having the right legal representation is key to your case. That’s where we step in at Marinaro Law and help you get the fair trial you deserve. Whether it’s petty theft or a repeat traffic offense, schedule your legal consultation with us today, and let us fight for you.
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