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 Mississauga, Ontario.
Shoplifting, employee theft, and other low-value theft charges. Routinely diverted or resolved without a criminal record for first-time accused.
- Courthouse
- Ontario Court of Justice — Brampton
- Court Phone
- (905) 456-4700
- 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 Mississauga
Peel Region's largest city and one of our home jurisdictions. Charges out of Peel Regional Police, OPP Port Credit, and the QEW are routinely heard at the Mississauga courts. Adjacent to Toronto and Hamilton — we appear at all three weekly.
Ontario Court of Justice — Brampton
7755 Hurontario Street, Brampton, ON L6W 4T1
(905) 456-4700
Charged with theft under $5,000?
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