Many people in Tennessee like to receive things for free, especially if they really want the item or could really use the money. Most people wait until it is given to them, but there are some individuals who do not wait and simply take the items they want. This is illegal, though, and if the people are caught stealing, they could face serious consequences including jail time.
A man was recently arrested after police were called to a residence whose alarm had been set off. The man attempted to escape through a window, but eventually surrendered to the police. Police say that he had cash and other items in his pocket that the home owner claimed was his money. The man was also charged with multiple burglaries as the police say he robbed other homes in the Knoxville area and allegedly took items totaling $17,200 between all the houses. Some of the items he allegedly sold at pawn shops for much less than the items were worth.
This man, like any other person charged with a crime, will now go through the criminal justice process. At this point in time though he is simply charged with the crimes and is not guilty of them. Every person charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. The burden also rests with the prosecutor to prove the person is guilty, not on the defendant to prove his or her innocence.
There may be defenses available to these people, which often times start with whether the police obtained the evidence correctly. If the search or seizure was improper, evidence can be thrown out and convictions may be less likely.
Many people in Tennessee are charged with crimes every year. These crimes vary in severity, but each crime carries potential consequences. However, before people can realize these consequences, they must be convicted of the crime. Experienced attorneys understand people’s rights and may be able to help protect them.
Source: knoxnews.com “KPD: Serial home burglar caught after stealing $17,200 in jewelry, other items,” Travis Dorman, Dec. 12, 2017