Calculating Losses In Theft Cases

[JMac60]

When sentencing takes place in theft cases, the losses play a part in the sentencing guidelines, but how are the losses calculated.

Do they go on the value of the item new, or the value of the item at the time of the theft, taking into account age, condition etc and who has to work that out.

For example, if my £15000 car was stolen (its value new 6 years ago), but it may only be worth £5000 now.

Jim

[Orderlimit]

With property that depreciates in value it would normally be current market price at time of offence JMac, motor vehicles being a good example.

A victim or complainant initially indicates the total value of loss when giving details for initial crime reports and when providing statements to the police investigator etc. If likely to be or is disputed then further evidence could be obtained from say the insurance company or a respected car valuation service.