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 Caledon, Ontario.
Shoplifting, employee theft, and other low-value theft charges. Routinely diverted or resolved without a criminal record for first-time accused.
- Courthouse
- Orangeville Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
- Court Phone
- (519) 941-0231
- 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 Caledon
Caledon traffic and Provincial Offences Act matters from Caledon OPP and the Town of Caledon bylaw are heard at the Caledon POA Court on Old Church Road. Criminal matters from Caledon proceed at the Orangeville Courthouse on Louisa Street.
Criminal Court
Orangeville Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
10 Louisa Street, Orangeville, ON L9W 3P9
(519) 941-0231
Criminal matters from Caledon and Dufferin County.
Charged with theft under $5,000?
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