Iowa prosecutors treat burglary and theft charges seriously. A conviction can result in serious consequences, including possible jail time and a criminal record that can follow an individual for life.
Recently a 22-year-old man was arrested in Iowa City and faces criminal charges of burglary and theft. According to police, the man is accused of breaking into homes on Maggard Street, East Jefferson Street and Waterfront Drive, between November 16 and January 7.
Police say he pawned two Xboxes from the first two burglaries at a pawn shop and a video game store in Coralville. On the third burglary, the man allegedly broke into the home, but ran away when the owner woke up. Police say they used his footprints in the snow to track and apprehend him.
The man is facing potential felonies. Specifically, the man has been charged with one count of second-degree burglary and two misdemeanor counts of theft in the third degree.
In Iowa, second-degree burglary is a Class C felony. It is defined as the burglary of an unoccupied building, or the burglary of an occupied building without a weapon. It is a serious charge and can result in severe penalties, if the defendant is convicted.
Anyone facing burglary and theft charges in Iowa has the right to fight the charges in court. By questioning the state's evidence and cross-examining witnesses, it may be possible to secure a not guilty verdict. If the state's evidence is strong, it is often possible to negotiate a plea agreement that will result in a reduction of the charges.
Source: Iowa City Press-Citizen, "Iowa City man accused of burglary, theft," Stephen Gruber-Miller, Jan. 26, 2016