Canadian Criminal Sentencing/Offences/Theft Under $5,000

Principles
A common offence in most provincial courts. The range of sentences for low end offences range from discharges for first time offenders, fines ($100 to 400), suspended sentence with probation, or short and sharp periods of imprisonment where there is a prior related criminal record.

Employee Theft
The goals of denunciation and deterrence require that absent exceptional circumstances, the sentence should include imprisonment.

Factors
Aggravating Factors
 * criminal record for similar offences
 * breach of trust
 * lack of recovery of items
 * inability to compensate owner

Other Factors
 * history of alcohol or substance abuse