Arrested or Charged with Felony Larceny (G.S. 14-72) in North Carolina?

Getting arrested for felony larceny under G.S. 14-72 can flip your world in an instant. Your job may be in jeopardy. A professional license you’ve worked years for might be on the line. And your freedom? That’s now part of the equation, too.

These charges don’t just threaten your present—they can follow you, casting shadows over future opportunities. That’s why facing a felony larceny charge isn’t something to take on alone.

At McMinn, Logan & Gray, PLLC, we defend people in Winston-Salem and across North Carolina accused of serious theft crimes. And we start by helping you understand exactly what you’re up against.

What Turns a Theft Into Felony Larceny in North Carolina?

Not every theft is treated the same. You might think it all comes down to the price tag—but that’s only part of it.

Under G.S. 14-72, theft becomes felony larceny when:

• The value of the property stolen is more than $1,000
• A firearm is involved—no matter how cheap or old it is
• The property contains an explosive or incendiary device (yes, even if it wasn’t used)
• The goods were taken right off someone—out of their pocket, bag, or hands
• The theft happened during a breaking and entering
• The item was in the custody of the North Carolina State Archives
• The stolen property includes official court documents or legal records

That means you could face felony charges for stealing something inexpensive if even one of these conditions applies. This part of North Carolina law is full of fine print, but that’s where a good defense can find opportunities.

Penalties for Felony Larceny in NC

Most felony larceny charges are Class H felonies in North Carolina. That means you could be facing:

• 4 to 25 months in prison
• Fines set by the court
• Probation, if you’re lucky
• Restitution to the alleged victim

If you’ve been charged before, especially for theft, penalties are harsher. And once you’re on the system’s radar, prosecutors press hard. That’s why you need a defense attorney early.

When Felony Larceny Isn’t the Only Charge

Felony larceny often isn’t the only charge. Prosecutors in North Carolina frequently stack related charges, including:

• Possession of stolen goods
• Receiving stolen property
• Breaking and entering
• False pretenses
• Conspiracy

Multiple charges increase your exposure—and the need for a comprehensive defense. We look at every angle, every allegation, and every detail.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Larceny

In North Carolina, theft under $1,000 is usually misdemeanor larceny (Class 1), which can mean up to 120 days in jail. Still serious—but very different from a felony.

Once the value hits $1,000 or more, you’re facing a felony charge. That can:

• Block job offers
• Disqualify you from professional licenses
• Make it hard to find housing
• Take away your firearm rights
• Trigger immigration consequences

When value is close to the threshold, we scrutinize how it was calculated. Replacement costs, inflated estimates, and brand-new prices for used items are common tricks. We challenge them.

Possible Defenses Against Felony Larceny Charges

This charge might feel like the end of the road—but it isn’t. The burden is still on the state. We look for every opportunity to protect your record, your rights, and your future.

Challenging Intent

The prosecution must prove you intended to permanently deprive the owner. If you thought you had permission, or planned to return the item, that’s a viable defense.

Fighting Valuation

If the item’s value is near $1,000, we look closely at the math. Used items, depreciation, or wear and tear often lower actual value.

Questioning Knowledge

In possession cases, prosecutors must prove you knew or should’ve known the item was stolen. That’s a high bar in messy or shared situations.

Challenging Illegal Searches

If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights—during a search or seizure—we may be able to get key evidence tossed out.

Potential Outcomes in Felony Larceny Cases

Charge Reduction

If the evidence supports it, we push to have the charge dropped to misdemeanor larceny, especially if the property value is close to the $1,000 mark.

First-Time Offender Programs

Some counties offer deferred prosecution or other diversion programs. You might:

• Pay restitution
• Complete community service
• Avoid new charges

Complete the program successfully, and your case could be dismissed—no conviction on your record.

Dismissal

If the evidence is weak or your rights were violated, we’ll pursue full dismissal.

Trial

If no deal is acceptable—or you didn’t commit the crime—we’ll take your case to Superior Court and fight for your acquittal.

Why the Right Criminal Defense Makes All the Difference

Going up against a felony larceny charge without the right defense behind you is like stepping into a fight blindfolded. The system is complicated. The stakes are high. And once mistakes are made, they’re hard to undo.

An experienced criminal defense attorney knows where to look, what to challenge, and how to apply pressure where it counts. That kind of representation doesn’t just make things easier—it can completely change the outcome of your case.

Here’s what a strong defense team brings to the table:

• A clear, honest case evaluation—so you know what’s working in your favor and what isn’t
• A sharp eye for constitutional issues—especially when the evidence might’ve been collected illegally
• Credibility in the room—because prosecutors know when they’re dealing with someone who won’t back down
• Knowledge of local diversion options, like deferred prosecution, and whether you qualify
• The willingness to go to trial when that’s the best path forward

No matter what your case looks like at the start, the right strategy can shape where it ends.

Talk to a North Carolina Felony Larceny Defense Attorney

At McMinn, Logan & Gray, PLLC, we represent people across North Carolina who’ve been charged with felony larceny, misdemeanor larceny, or other theft-related offenses under G.S. 14-72. Whether the case is simple or more involved, we start by reviewing what actually happened—how the charge came about, what the evidence shows, and where the state may have overreached.

Sometimes the value is overstated. Sometimes rights were violated. And sometimes the charge doesn’t reflect the full picture. When we can step in early, we’re often able to challenge the case before it gains momentum.

If you’re facing larceny charges, reach out to us to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll take the time to listen, look closely at the details, and help you decide what comes next.