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 Halton Hills, Ontario.
Shoplifting, employee theft, and other low-value theft charges. Routinely diverted or resolved without a criminal record for first-time accused.
- Courthouse
- Milton Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
- Court Phone
- (905) 878-7281
- 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 Halton Hills
Halton Hills — Georgetown, Acton and the surrounding communities. Traffic tickets are heard at the Halton Provincial Offences Court in Burlington; criminal matters at the Milton Courthouse.
Criminal Court
Milton Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
491 Steeles Avenue East, Milton, ON L9T 1Y7
(905) 878-7281
All Halton Region criminal matters — Halton Hills, Milton, Burlington and Oakville.
Charged with theft under $5,000?
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