Theft By Deception

N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4

New Jersey Theft By Deception Charges: N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4

The New Jersey statute governing charges for theft by deception is N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 which provides:

N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. Theft by deception

A person is guilty of theft if he purposely obtains property of another by deception. A person deceives if he purposely:

a. Creates or reinforces a false impression, including false impressions as to law, value, intention or other state of mind, and including, but not limited to, a false impression that the person is soliciting or collecting funds for a charitable purpose; but deception as to a person’s intention to perform a promise shall not be inferred from the fact alone that he did not subsequently perform the promise;

b. Prevents another from acquiring information which would affect his judgment of a transaction; or

c. Fails to correct a false impression which the deceiver previously created or reinforced, or which the deceiver knows to be influencing another to whom he stands in a fiduciary or confidential relationship.

The term “deceive” does not, however, include falsity as to matters having no pecuniary significance, or puffing or exaggeration by statements unlikely to deceive ordinary persons in the group addressed.

Penalties for Theft By Deception in New Jersey

The degree or grade of the theft by deception charge in New Jersey depends on the amount involved in the alleged theft. If the amount involved is $75,000 or more, this will be graded as Second Degree Theft by Deception. If the amount involved is more than $500 but less than $75,000, this will be considered Third Degree Theft by Deception in NJ. Finally, if the amount involved is more than $200 but less than $500, this will be charged as Fourth Degree Theft by Deception in New Jersey.

If you have been charged with theft by deception,  you can only make a well-informed decision about how to proceed after discussing your case with an attorney with the appropriate experience. If you would like to speak with me, call 1-732-845-3203 or e-mail Ray at rraya@rayalaw.com to set up a consultation.

I represent clients who have received a summons or been arrested on a wide variety of traffic and criminal offenses, defending them throughout New Jersey.

The Law Offices of Raymond A. Raya, Esq.

Monmouth County Lawyer

Traffic · DUI/DWI · Criminal Defense · Municipal