Felony Theft Amount and Penalties in Minnesota

Theft of property or services worth more than $1,000 but not more than $5,000 is punishable by up to 5 years and/or a fine up to $10,000 (felony). More than $5,000 — up to 10 years and/or $20,000. More than $35,000 (for listed theft types), or a firearm — up to 20 years and/or $100,000. More than $500 but not more than $1,000 — up to 364 days and/or $3,000 (gross misdemeanor); $500 or less — up to 90 days and/or $1,000 (misdemeanor). Theft of $1,000 or less is still in the 5-year tier in listed cases, e.g., a motor vehicle, property taken from the person of another, or public funds; and $500–$1,000 is in the 5-year tier with a qualifying prior conviction within five years.

Minnesota does not group felonies into lettered classes or degrees; the maximum sentence is set in each offense's statute. A 'felony' is 'a crime for which a sentence of imprisonment for one year or more may be imposed' (§ 609.02, subd. 2). When no punishment is otherwise fixed for a felony, the sentence may be imprisonment for not more than five years, a fine of not more than $10,000, or both (§ 609.03).

Gross misdemeanor — any crime that is not a felony or misdemeanor; maximum fine $3,000 (§ 609.02, subd. 4); when not otherwise fixed, up to 364 days' imprisonment, a fine up to $3,000, or both (§ 609.03). Misdemeanor — not more than 90 days or a fine of not more than $1,000, or both (§ 609.02, subd. 3). Petty misdemeanor — a petty offense prohibited by statute that 'does not constitute a crime,' with a fine of not more than $300 (§ 609.02, subd. 4a).