Being accused of possession of stolen property can be overwhelming, especially if you didn’t know the item was stolen. Whether the property was purchased unknowingly, received as a gift, or borrowed, law enforcement takes these cases seriously.
If a loved one has been arrested for possession of stolen goods, understanding what this charge means and how the bail process works can help you navigate the situation.
What Is Possession of Stolen Property?
Possession of stolen property means someone is found with goods that were taken unlawfully, even if they didn’t commit the theft themselves.
To pursue charges, law enforcement typically looks at:
- Whether the item was actually stolen.
- Whether the person knew or should have known the item was stolen.
- Whether the person had control over the property.
The tricky part? Intent matters. If someone buys an item from an unreliable source—like a flea market, social media, or a stranger—without asking questions, they could still face legal trouble if the item turns out to be stolen.
How Serious Is a Possession of Stolen Property Charge?
In Nevada, the severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen goods:
- Under $1,200 – Misdemeanor (Up to 6 months in jail + fines)
- $1,200 – $5,000 – Felony (1 to 4 years in prison + fines)
- $5,000 – $25,000 – Felony (1 to 5 years in prison + fines)
- $25,000 – $100,000 – Felony (1 to 10 years in prison + fines)
- Over $100,000 – Felony (1 to 20 years in prison + fines)
Aside from the legal consequences, a conviction can also impact job opportunities, housing, and background checks.
What If You Didn’t Know the Property Was Stolen?
It’s not uncommon for someone to unknowingly end up with stolen property. Maybe you bought a second-hand item at a great price, received a gift, or made a trade. But if police find out the item was stolen, you might still be questioned—or worse, charged.
That’s why proving a lack of knowledge is crucial in these cases. Authorities may consider:
- Where you got the item (Was it from a reputable source?)
- How much you paid (Was it suspiciously cheap?)
- Whether you tried to verify ownership
Since every situation is different, it’s always best to understand your rights and seek professional guidance.
Arrested for Possession of Stolen Property? Here’s What Happens Next
If someone is arrested for possession of stolen goods, they’ll typically be booked into jail and given a bail amount.
At eBail, we help families secure bail quickly, so defendants can focus on their case while staying out of jail.
- Nevada law requires a 15% non-refundable premium for all bail bonds.
- A cosigner is always required—we don’t allow defendants to bail themselves out.
- Payment plans are available for qualified cosigners.
If your loved one is facing charges and needs bail assistance in Nevada, contact eBail anytime—we’re available 24/7 to help.