In Oklahoma, it is a crime to buy, receive, keep, or hide property you know or reasonably should know was stolen. Receiving or concealing stolen property is charged under 21 O.S. § 1713, and like larceny, the value of the property largely determines whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony. The key issue in most cases is what you knew.
Key Takeaways
- You do not have to be the person who stole the property to be charged.
- The State must prove you knew, or had reason to believe, the property was stolen.
- Value generally determines the level of the charge, with $1,000 as a key threshold.
- Buying something below market price is not, by itself, proof of guilt.
What the State Has to Prove
To convict, prosecutors generally must show that the property was stolen, that you received, bought, concealed, or withheld it, and that you knew or had reason to know it was stolen. Knowledge is usually argued from circumstances: an unusually low price, a seller with no receipts, altered serial numbers, or where and how the deal happened.
Penalties
Penalties generally follow value tiers similar to larceny. Property worth less than $1,000 is usually charged as a misdemeanor, while higher values can be charged as felonies with increasing ranges. Certain property, such as firearms or vehicles, can bring additional or separate charges. See petit vs. grand larceny in Oklahoma for how value tiers work.
Common Situations
- Buying electronics, tools, or a phone through online marketplaces.
- Holding property for a friend or family member.
- Pawn shop transactions.
- Being found in a vehicle that turns out to be stolen.
Defenses
- No knowledge: you had no reason to believe the property was stolen.
- No possession: the property was near you but not under your control.
- Value: the property was worth less than claimed.
- Unlawful search: the property was found through a search that violated your rights.
Learn more about property crime defense on our Oklahoma City theft lawyer page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is receiving stolen property in Oklahoma?
It is buying, receiving, concealing, or withholding property that you know or have reason to know was stolen. It is charged under 21 O.S. § 1713.
Is receiving stolen property a felony in Oklahoma?
It depends largely on value. Lower-value property is usually charged as a misdemeanor, while higher values can be charged as felonies.
What if I didn't know the item was stolen?
Knowledge is a required element. If you had no reason to believe the property was stolen, that is a defense.
Can I be charged for holding property for someone else?
Yes, if the State can show you knew or had reason to know it was stolen. Your knowledge is usually the central issue.
Talk to an Oklahoma City Theft Defense Lawyer
A theft or property crime charge can follow you into every job and housing application. Call (405) 605-8380 or request a free consultation to have your case reviewed.
This article is general information about Oklahoma law, not legal advice. Laws change, and every case depends on its facts. Contact an attorney about your specific situation.
