i.
What the charge means
Theft of property valued under $5,000 is a hybrid offence under section 334(b) of the Criminal Code. The Crown typically elects to proceed summarily.
Criminal Code s.334(b)
Theft Under $5,000 charges in Barrie, Ontario.
Shoplifting, employee theft, and other low-value theft charges. Routinely diverted or resolved without a criminal record for first-time accused.
- Courthouse
- Barrie Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
- Court Phone
- (705) 739-6111
- Consultation
- Free & Confidential
ii.
Penalties
Summary: up to 2 years less a day. A finding of guilt creates a criminal record. Diversion, conditional discharge, or absolute discharge frequently available for first-time accused.
iii.
Available defences
- Lack of intent (no mens rea)
- Honest but mistaken belief in ownership
- Identification
- Charter — unlawful detention or search
iv.
The process
Crown pre-charge screening, disclosure, diversion application where eligible, plea or trial. Diversion programs (e.g., Direct Accountability) can result in a stay without a record.
v.
Notes for Barrie
OPP Central Region patrols the 400 corridor heavily — Barrie sees a high volume of stunt driving and speeding matters from Highway 400 and Highway 11. Summary criminal matters proceed at the Barrie courthouse on Mulcaster Street.
Barrie Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
75 Mulcaster Street, Barrie, ON L4M 3P2
(705) 739-6111
Charged with theft under $5,000?
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