What you Should Know
In an age where social media marketplaces offer easy access to secondhand goods, it’s also easier than ever to unknowingly purchase stolen property. If you live in Arizona and have bought something off Facebook Marketplace—only to find out it was stolen—you could face unexpected legal consequences. Here’s what you need to know and how to protect yourself.
Is It Illegal to Buy Stolen Goods in Arizona?
Yes. Under Arizona Revised Statutes §13-1802, knowingly buying, receiving, or possessing stolen property can be charged as theft. However, the law also makes room for individuals who unknowingly purchase stolen items, which is a critical distinction.
To be convicted, the state must prove you knew or had reason to know the item was stolen. That means even if you didn’t directly steal the item, you could still be implicated if the circumstances of the sale were suspicious—for example, an unusually low price, missing serial numbers, or a seller unwilling to meet in public or provide receipts.
What Happens If Police Discover You Bought a Stolen Item?
If law enforcement identifies a stolen item in your possession, several outcomes are possible:
- The item will likely be confiscated and returned to its rightful owner.
- You may be questioned about how you obtained the item.
- If there’s evidence that you knowingly purchased stolen property, you could be arrested and charged.
- Depending on the value of the item, charges could range from a misdemeanor to a felony.
For example, under Arizona law:
- Theft of items worth less than $1,000 is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor.
- Items valued at $1,000 or more may result in felony charges.
What If You Didn’t Know the Item Was Stolen?
If you genuinely had no idea the property was stolen and the transaction appeared legitimate, you might not face criminal charges. However, you’ll still likely lose the item, and it could become part of a criminal investigation. In some cases, prosecutors or police may argue that you “should have known” based on the circumstances, so it’s essential to gather any evidence that supports your good faith—screenshots of the listing, communication with the seller, and payment proof.
What Should You Do If You Suspect You Bought Stolen Goods?
- Stop using the item immediately and document everything related to the purchase.
- Do not attempt to resell it—doing so could worsen your legal standing.
- Contact local law enforcement or an attorney for guidance before taking further action.
- Speak with a criminal defense attorney if you’re being questioned or charged.
At Rideout Law Group, we’ve represented clients in complex theft-related cases throughout Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure of your rights or fear you may be implicated in a stolen property case, contact us immediately.
How to Avoid Buying Stolen Items Online
To protect yourself from accidentally buying stolen goods:
- Avoid cash-only deals with no receipt or record.
- Meet sellers in public, well-lit places—preferably near law enforcement zones.
- Check for serial numbers, original packaging, or proof of ownership.
- Be cautious of deals that seem “too good to be true.”
Need Legal Advice?
If you’re being investigated or charged with theft in Arizona after buying an item online, don’t wait to seek legal help. Our criminal defense attorneys in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu are experienced in navigating these sensitive cases.
📞 Call Rideout Law Group at (480) 584-3328 (Scottsdale) or (928) 854-8181 (Lake Havasu) for a confidential consultation today.