Auto Theft Defense in Bentonville

Your Auto Theft Case, Handled Directly by Attorney Ramon Bertucci

An accusation involving a stolen vehicle requires a defense focused on the charge, the evidence, and the circumstances surrounding possession. At Bertucci Law Firm, I represent people facing auto theft and theft of property allegations, including misdemeanor and felony accusations.

I am Attorney Ramon Bertucci, and I personally handle each theft case from start to finish. I have managed thousands of criminal cases and can become involved at any stage, whether law enforcement wants to question you, you have been arrested, or court proceedings have begun.

Call (479) 227-2716 for direct assistance with an auto theft allegation in Bentonville.

How Arkansas Classifies Theft of a Vehicle

Arkansas generally addresses the alleged taking of a vehicle through its theft of property statute. Under Arkansas Code Section 5-36-103(a), a person commits theft of property by knowingly taking or exercising unauthorized control over another person’s property with the purpose of depriving the owner of it. The statute also covers obtaining property through deception or threat.

The alleged value affects the classification. Vehicle theft isn’t automatically charged at one particular felony level simply because the property is a motor vehicle.

Arkansas uses the following value thresholds:

• $1,000 or less: Class A misdemeanor.
• More than $1,000 but no more than $5,000: Class D felony.
• More than $5,000 but less than $25,000: Class C felony.
• $25,000 or more: Class B felony.

A Class A misdemeanor theft of property charge carries a possible sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The potential consequences depend on the charged offense, alleged value, and facts of the individual case.

Vehicle Use, Stolen Parts & Altered Identification Numbers

Some vehicle-related accusations fall outside the general theft of property statute. Arkansas Code Section 5-36-108 identifies unauthorized use of a vehicle as a separate offense. The alleged purpose, authority, and owner consent can be central to distinguishing that charge from theft of property.

Arkansas Code Section 5-36-109 addresses operating a chop shop and dealing in stolen or forged motor vehicle parts. A chop shop is an operation involving stolen vehicles or parts, and the statute applies to knowingly owning, operating, or participating in one. It also addresses altering a vehicle identification number to conceal the identity of a vehicle or its parts.

Evidence & Defenses in Bentonville Auto Theft Cases

A defense begins with determining what the prosecution can prove, not assuming that possession establishes theft. I evaluate the evidence for each element of the charge, including whether the accused person acted knowingly and intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property.

Depending on the evidence, important defense issues may include:

• Owner Consent: I consider whether the owner gave permission to use or possess the vehicle and whether communications or prior conduct support that position.
• Intent to Deprive: I examine whether the evidence proves the required intent or instead supports a misunderstanding, temporary use, or another explanation.
• Misidentification: I evaluate how law enforcement identified the accused person and whether witness accounts or other identification evidence are reliable.
• Claim of Right: I consider whether the accused person genuinely believed they had a lawful right to possess the vehicle or property.

No defense applies automatically. The appropriate strategy depends on the statements, records, physical evidence, ownership information, and other circumstances surrounding the allegation.

What Happens After an Auto Theft Arrest

A theft case generally begins with an initial appearance, the defendant’s first appearance before a judge after arrest. Arraignment follows, when the charge is formally presented and a plea is entered. The case may then proceed through pretrial hearings and, when necessary, trial.

Felony theft matters arising in Bentonville and Benton County proceed in Benton County Circuit Court. Misdemeanor theft matters are most often heard in local district courts. I am familiar with the local courts, judges, and criminal procedures that shape these proceedings.

The timing and course of a case depend on the charge, available evidence, prior record, disputed legal issues, and individual facts. I personally manage each applicable stage and communicate directly with my client throughout the proceedings.

Discuss Your Allegation Directly with Attorney Ramon Bertucci

I offer free initial consultations and virtual consultations for people facing vehicle theft allegations or law enforcement questioning. Calls are answered 24/7, and you’ll speak directly with me rather than a paralegal or assistant. You may also use the contact form.

Contacting me early allows me to understand where the case stands, review immediate concerns, and identify the next legal proceeding. There’s no financial obligation for the initial consultation.

Call (479) 227-2716 to discuss your auto theft or theft of property allegation with Attorney Ramon Bertucci.