Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

Re: theft

More facts are required to answer your question about theft by a minor. Only a very general answer can be provided here.

First, it is good that the value of the stolen item or money is less than $250, since beyond that value or amount, the charge (in the adult court setting) would be a felony. The juvenile setting is a bit different, in that a juvenile is not techinically charged with a crime, at least not in the same manner as an adult, and instead the county proceeds with a delinquency petition.

Second, depending on the age of the child and the number of prior offenses, if any, and the circumstances of the offense, the juvenile court will be inclined to be remedial. It is likely the juvenile will be ordered to pay restitution, and probably do community service -- depending on age, priors, and the county involved.

If you have further questions and more facts, feel free to contact me at your convenience. My contact information is below.

Thank you for your question and good luck.