Defenses Against Trafficking in Stolen Property in Washington State

Trafficking in stolen property is a serious offense in Washington State that can lead to severe legal consequences. Whether you knowingly or unknowingly sold stolen goods, the ramifications can be significant. Under state law, involvement in trafficking stolen property can result in felony charges, potentially leading to a jail sentence ranging from two to ten years, depending on the circumstances.

Types of Charges for Trafficking Stolen Property

If you are accused of trafficking stolen property, the nature of the charges will depend on your level of awareness regarding the stolen status of the goods. For instance:

  • Reckless Disregard: If you sold stolen goods recklessly, the court may determine that you ignored clear signs that the property was stolen. This could lead to a class 2 felony charge, which carries hefty penalties.
  • First-Degree Trafficking: This more severe charge implies that you had knowledge or involvement in the theft itself. Although less common, it poses significant legal challenges.
  • Unknowingly Selling Stolen Property: If the court finds that you were unaware the property was stolen, you may face a class 3 felony charge. However, ignorance is not always an effective defense.

The court will evaluate factors like the purchase price of the goods and the circumstances of the sale to establish your level of culpability.

Possible Penalties for Trafficking Stolen Goods

The penalties for trafficking stolen property can be severe and vary based on your knowledge of the property’s status:

  • Class 2 Felony: If found guilty of knowingly trafficking stolen property, you could face a minimum of three years in prison, with a presumptive term of five years and up to 12 years for aggravated circumstances.
  • Class 3 Felony: If the court rules that you unknowingly sold stolen goods, you could face a minimum of two years in prison, with a presumptive term of 3.5 years and up to 8.75 years for aggravated circumstances.

In both scenarios, probation may be an option, but the specifics of your case will heavily influence the outcome.

Facing charges for trafficking stolen property is a daunting experience, and having a skilled attorney by your side is essential. A criminal defense attorney can navigate the complexities of the Washington legal system, ensuring that your rights are protected. Early intervention is critical; reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

A qualified lawyer will review your case thoroughly to determine the validity of the charges against you. In the best-case scenario, they may help you have the charges dismissed altogether. If dismissal isn’t possible, they will work diligently to negotiate a reduced sentence or explore alternatives like plea deals.

If you are facing charges related to trafficking in stolen property in Washington State, it’s vital to seek legal assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we understand the serious implications of these charges and are committed to providing you with the expert guidance you need. Contact us today at (360) 334-6277 to discuss your case and begin building a strong defense. Your future depends on it.