On This Page
WHAT IS PETTY LARCENY (MISDEMEANOR THEFT) IN NEVADA?
Petty larceny is the intentional theft of property valued at less than $650. It is the misdemeanor version of theft in Nevada, covering shoplifting, pickpocketing, and other small-scale theft offenses.
WHAT THE PROSECUTION MUST PROVE
To convict you of Petty Larceny (Misdemeanor Theft) in Nevada, the prosecution must prove each of the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
The defendant intentionally took property belonging to another person
The taking was without the owner's consent
The defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property
The value of the property was less than $650
If the prosecution cannot prove any single element beyond a reasonable doubt, you cannot be convicted.
PENALTIES FOR PETTY LARCENY (MISDEMEANOR THEFT) IN NEVADA
Petty Larceny
Misdemeanor. Up to 6 months in jail and/or up to $1,000 fine.
THOMAS'S DEFENSE TIPS
Insights from Thomas Boley — Las Vegas criminal defense attorney with 18+ years defending petty larceny (misdemeanor theft) charges
First-time petty larceny offenders often qualify for diversion programs in Clark County that allow the charge to be dismissed upon completion of community service and a theft prevention course.
Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can have serious consequences — it can affect employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. Fighting the charge or pursuing diversion is almost always worth it.
Retail merchants have the right to detain suspected shoplifters for a reasonable time under Nevada's merchant privilege law. However, if the detention was unreasonable, evidence obtained during it may be suppressed.
The above represents general observations from years of criminal defense practice in Nevada. Every case is different — contact Thomas for advice specific to your situation.
COMMON DEFENSES TO PETTY LARCENY (MISDEMEANOR THEFT)
Every case is unique, but these are the defenses most commonly raised in petty larceny (misdemeanor theft) cases in Nevada:
Claim of right — you believed you owned the property
No intent to steal — accidental taking
Value is below the theft threshold
Mistaken identity
Unlawful detention by merchant