North Dakota property offenses are distinguished by conduct, intent, value, entry, force, and other circumstances. A careful defense separates what the evidence proves from what investigators inferred. This guide focuses on the exact North Dakota law, offense level, penalties, evidence, defenses, and Fargo court issues that matter when you are searching for counsel for this charge.

Fargo and West Fargo focus: Your court papers, alleged offense date, exact statutory subsection, deadlines, and original evidence control. Cass County procedures and current official North Dakota sources should be verified before you act.

North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery

Quick answer

At a glance

Charge level: This guide compares 34 separately defined offenses, classes, or statutory paths. Each comparison below states its class and controlling elements.

Potential maximum penalty: There is no single family-wide maximum. The comparison below states the class ceiling for each linked offense and identifies any offense-specific term found in the governing section.

Minimum or mandatory sentence: Any offense-specific minimum is identified with that charge path. Class ceilings do not create a minimum by themselves; separate mandatory-term statutes must also be checked.

What the prosecution must prove: The charging document must identify the exact statute and class. Each element and enhancement must be matched to admissible evidence. The central issues on this page include intent and authorization, valuation, entry and occupancy, force or weapon allegation.

For North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery, the exact statute, subdivision, offense date, criminal history, and facts proved control. The statutory maximum is not a prediction of the likely sentence.

Statute, elements, and sentencing exposure

Elements and potential penalties

This summary explains the governing framework for North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery without pretending to predict a result. The complaint’s statute and subdivision, alleged offense date, qualifying history, amendments, and facts proved in court control.

Charge level: This guide compares 34 separately defined offenses, classes, or statutory paths. Each comparison below states its class and controlling elements.
Statutory maximum: There is no single family-wide maximum. The comparison below states the class ceiling for each linked offense and identifies any offense-specific term found in the governing section.
Minimum or mandatory provisions: Any offense-specific minimum is identified with that charge path. Class ceilings do not create a minimum by themselves; separate mandatory-term statutes must also be checked.
What the prosecution must establish: The charging document must identify the exact statute and class. Each element and enhancement must be matched to admissible evidence. The central issues on this page include intent and authorization, valuation, entry and occupancy, force or weapon allegation.

Degree-by-degree analysis

Compare the degrees and related charge paths

The law governing North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery can contain more than one charging path. The exact subdivision in the complaint comes first. From there, each fact used to change the degree, penalty tier, or mandatory-sentence provision must be proved.

Theft Charges in North Dakota

Class B misdemeanor through class B felony depending on value and statutory circumstance

Maximum or consequence: From 30 days/$1,500 to 10 years/$20,000 under the class structure.
Minimum or mandatory provision: No single minimum applies to every theft grade.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove the charged form of unauthorized control, deception, services theft, or receiving, the required intent, and the value or other grading facts.

Official statute

Burglary Charges in North Dakota

Class C felony; class B felony for nighttime-dwelling and specified injury, restraint, menace, or weapon circumstances

Maximum or consequence: Class C: up to 5 years/$10,000. Class B: up to 10 years/$20,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: Armed-offender minimums may apply when the statutory findings are charged and proven.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove willful entry or surreptitious remaining without license when the premises were not open to the public, plus intent to commit a crime inside.

Official statute

Robbery Charges in North Dakota

Class C, B, or A felony depending on injury, accomplice, menace, and weapon use

Maximum or consequence: Class C: 5 years/$10,000; class B: 10 years/$20,000; class A: 20 years/$20,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: Armed-offender minimums can require two or four years depending on the felony class and findings.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove theft or attempted theft plus injury, attempted injury, threat, or menace, and any weapon or accomplice factor setting the class.

Official statute

Forgery and Counterfeiting Charges in North Dakota

Misdemeanor or felony depending on the instrument, purpose, value, and statutory section

Maximum or consequence: The maximum follows the assigned class and can reach class B felony exposure of 10 years/$20,000 for covered high-grade conduct.
Minimum or mandatory provision: No single minimum applies to every forgery or counterfeiting offense.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove the false making, completing, alteration, uttering, or possession charged, plus knowledge and intent to deceive or harm.

Official statute

Fraud and Deceptive-Practices Charges in North Dakota

Misdemeanor or felony depending on scheme, loss, value, victim, and statute

Maximum or consequence: The class-based ceiling ranges from 30 days/$1,500 to felony exposure that may reach 10 years/$20,000 for covered high-grade conduct.
Minimum or mandatory provision: No single minimum applies to every fraud theory.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove the specific deception or scheme, the required intent, attribution, reliance or acquisition where required, and the loss or value facts setting the grade.

Official statute

Arson and Endangering by Fire in North Dakota

Class C, B, or A felony depending on property, danger, injury, and conduct

Maximum or consequence: The class structure permits up to 5, 10, or 20 years and fines up to $10,000 or $20,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: No single minimum applies to all fire offenses; weapon, injury, and other specific statutes may apply.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove the charged starting, maintaining, or causing of fire or explosion, the required mental state, and the property, danger, injury, or loss facts setting the class.

Official statute

Criminal Trespass in North Dakota

Class B misdemeanor through class B felony depending on place, conduct, and history

Maximum or consequence: From up to 30 days/$1,500 through 10 years/$20,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: No offense-wide minimum is stated in § 12.1-22-03.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove knowing lack of license or privilege, entry or remaining in the place charged, notice where required, and any residential or repeat-offense facts.

Official statute

Criminal Mischief in North Dakota

Class B misdemeanor through class B felony depending on loss and circumstances

Maximum or consequence: From up to 30 days/$1,500 through 10 years/$20,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: No offense-wide minimum is stated in § 12.1-21-05.
Elements and facts that select this path: The state must prove willful tampering that endangers person or property or willful damage, plus the mental state, loss, device, or riot facts setting the class.

Official statute

Failure to Control or Report a Dangerous Fire in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-21-03. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Negligent Act Resulting in Fire ‑ Penalty in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class B misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class B misdemeanor: up to 30 days and/or $1,500.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-21-03.1. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Misapplication of Entrusted Property in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class A felony, Class B felony, Class C felony, Class A misdemeanor and Class B misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class A felony: up to 20 years and/or $20,000; Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000; Class B misdemeanor: up to 30 days and/or $1,500. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-07. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Dealing in Stolen Property in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class C felony and Class B felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-08.3. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Release of Destructive Forces in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class B felony and Class C felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-21-04. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Disarming or Attempting to Disarm a Law Enforcement Officer in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class C felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-02.1. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class C felony and Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-06. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Removal of Identification Marks in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-08.1. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Unauthorized Use of Personal Identifying Information ‑ Penalty in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class B felony, Class C felony, Class A felony and Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A felony: up to 20 years and/or $20,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-11. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Making or Uttering Slugs in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class A misdemeanor and Class B misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000; Class B misdemeanor: up to 30 days and/or $1,500. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-24-05. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Theft of Property in North Dakota

The section contains one or more offense-specific penalty paths. The complaint’s exact subdivision and the facts used to select a tier control the charge level.

Maximum or consequence: The maximum must be calculated from the exact charged subsection and any incorporated penalty provision; the selected section does not state one offense-wide class.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-02. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Theft of Property Lost, Mislaid, or Delivered by Mistake in North Dakota

The section contains one or more offense-specific penalty paths. The complaint’s exact subdivision and the facts used to select a tier control the charge level.

Maximum or consequence: The maximum must be calculated from the exact charged subsection and any incorporated penalty provision; the selected section does not state one offense-wide class.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-04. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Fraudulent Practice in Urine Testing in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-11-07. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Theft of Services in North Dakota

The section contains one or more offense-specific penalty paths. The complaint’s exact subdivision and the facts used to select a tier control the charge level.

Maximum or consequence: The maximum must be calculated from the exact charged subsection and any incorporated penalty provision; the selected section does not state one offense-wide class.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-03. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Defrauding Secured Creditors in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class C felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-08. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Distribution and Use of Theft Detection Shielding Devices in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class C felony and Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-13. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Forgery or Counterfeiting in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class B felony, Class A felony, Class C felony and Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000; Class A felony: up to 20 years and/or $20,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-24-01. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Fraudulent Use of Receipts and UPC Labels in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class A misdemeanor and Class C felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31-09. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Distributing Products to Defraud a Urine Test in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 19-04-09. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Gaming Fraud and Cheating Schemes in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class A misdemeanor and Class C felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 53-06.1-16. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Arson in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class B felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-21-01. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Endangering by Fire or Explosion in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class B felony and Class C felony. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-21-02. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Possession of Altered Property in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-23-08.2. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Fire Alarm Tampering in North Dakota

The current section classifies the offense as a Class B misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Class B misdemeanor: up to 30 days and/or $1,500.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-21-09. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Computer Fraud ‑ Computer Crime ‑ Classification ‑ Penalty in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class C felony and Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-06.1-08. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Exploitation of an Eligible Adult ‑ Penalty in North Dakota

The current section includes these classification paths: Class A felony, Class B felony, Class C felony and Class A misdemeanor. The exact subsection and enhancement facts control.

Maximum or consequence: Possible statutory ceilings are Class A felony: up to 20 years and/or $20,000; Class B felony: up to 10 years and/or $20,000; Class C felony: up to 5 years and/or $10,000; Class A misdemeanor: up to 360 days and/or $3,000. The charged subsection controls.
Minimum or mandatory provision: This section does not state one minimum sentence for every theory. The charged subsection, criminal history, and any separate mandatory-sentence provision must be checked.
Elements and facts that select this path: The prosecution must prove the specific prohibited act and mental state required by N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31-07.1. The evidence must address: the specific property or financial act; intent, knowledge, consent, and claim of right; ownership, value, loss, and aggregation; and records, device evidence, and identity attribution. Any definition, cross-reference, prior offense, or other fact used to increase the class or penalty also requires proof.

Official statute

Why this matters for North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery: the issues shown above—intent and authorization, valuation, entry and occupancy, force or weapon allegation—may change the applicable theory, classification, or sentence. The offense date and the statute effective on that date must be checked before relying on any summary.

Why the maximum is not the likely sentence

Sentencing context for North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery Defense Guide: The offense class in North Dakota sets the outer imprisonment and fine ceiling. The court then applies the offense statute, authorized sentencing alternatives, criminal history, aggravating or mitigating facts, and any specifically authorized minimum term.

Official sources for this summary

Important: This summary of North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery cannot calculate a sentence or replace a review of the complaint. Before relying on this summary, verify the exact subsection, effective date, definitions, enhancements, criminal history, guidelines or class rules, and controlling decisions.

Start with the current law: N.D.C.C. Chapters 12.1-23 and 12.1-22. The official text, effective-date history, charged subdivision, and alleged offense date must be checked before anyone relies on a summary.

Intent and authorization

Separate proof of state of mind from assumptions based only on the outcome.

Valuation

The defense should examine valuation, compare the allegation with the original evidence, and identify what the prosecution can prove and what remains disputed or missing.

Entry and occupancy

Identify access, control, attribution, and supported alternative explanations.

Force or weapon allegation

Test the statutory definition, possession theory, location, and alleged manner of use.

Explore related North Dakota defense guides

Start with the charge or court location shown on the complaint or hearing notice, then use these links to compare related statutes, procedures, evidence issues, and local court information.

Theft, burglary, robbery, fraud, and property offenses

Answers to immediate questions

Frequently asked questions about North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery

These short answers identify the questions that usually matter first when dealing with North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery. The complaint, exact subdivision, offense date, and history may change the answer.

How is the charge classified?

This guide compares 34 separately defined offenses, classes, or statutory paths. Each comparison below states its class and controlling elements.

Which degree or statutory theory might apply?

Yes. This guide separates 34 relevant degree, subdivision, or penalty paths. The exact complaint language, offense date, definitions, prior qualifying events, and facts control which path may apply.

What is the possible maximum penalty?

There is no single family-wide maximum. The comparison below states the class ceiling for each linked offense and identifies any offense-specific term found in the governing section.

Does a mandatory sentence apply?

Any offense-specific minimum is identified with that charge path. Class ceilings do not create a minimum by themselves; separate mandatory-term statutes must also be checked.

What does the prosecution have to prove?

The charging document must identify the exact statute and class. Each element and enhancement must be matched to admissible evidence. The central issues on this page include intent and authorization, valuation, entry and occupancy, force or weapon allegation.

What records should you preserve before speaking with a lawyer?

Preserve the complaint, citation, hearing notices, release orders, complete messages, original photos or video, witness names, and receipts, ownership records, surveillance video, access logs, messages, account records, device data, witness accounts, valuation evidence, and the chain linking property or funds to the accused person. Do not contact a complaining witness in violation of an order, and do not post about the case.

Authorities and source verification

For North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery, use primary government sources to check the law and procedure that may apply. The complaint, alleged offense date, charged subdivision, later amendments, and effective-date provisions determine which text applies.

N.D.C.C. Chapters 12.1-23 and 12.1-22 — the official statutory starting point for the charge discussed on this page.
North Dakota Courts criminal-case information — official court information about the criminal-case process.

Current-law check: For this page about North Dakota Theft, Burglary, and Robbery, these links are research starting points. Before relying on case-specific advice, verify the complete current statute, incorporated definitions, cross-references, session laws, court rules, and controlling appellate decisions.

Legal information, not legal advice. This guide provides general information about North Dakota law. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. Case-specific advice begins only after the complete facts are reviewed and Wynne Law confirms representation in a written agreement.

Fargo case analysis

How Theft, Burglary, and Robbery should be investigated in Fargo

Property allegations turn on details that can disappear when the case is reduced to a label. Your defense should separate ownership, permission, intent, identity, value, entry, force, and the chronology of the transaction or encounter. A disagreement, mistake, shared access, or disputed valuation is not automatically proof of a crime.

Ownership and authorization

Contracts, receipts, account records, access permissions, prior dealings, communications, and the actual scope of consent.

Identification

Original video, access logs, device records, witness vantage points, lineups, location information, and evidence of other possible actors.

Intent

Messages, timing, conduct before and after the event, explanations given at the time, return or recovery records, and evidence supporting mistake or claim of right.

Value and grading

Market value on the relevant date, condition, depreciation, aggregation, invoices, expert valuation, and statutory special-property rules.

Questions the evidence must answer

Which statutory theft, entry, deception, receiving, or force theory is actually charged
Whether the evidence proves criminal intent at the required time
Whether identification rests on a reliable source or a conclusion repeated by later witnesses
Whether the alleged value and aggregation method support the offense level
Whether the state preserved the complete transaction, surveillance, and communication record

The useful defense is the one tied to the charged subsection and the original evidence. The same category of charge can require a very different response when the alleged offense level, injury, quantity, history, relationship, location, weapon, or court changes.

Where a Fargo charge may be handled

Your newest complaint, citation, summons, or bond order should identify the court. State criminal cases in Cass County generally proceed through the East Central Judicial District at the Cass County Courthouse. Fargo Municipal Court separately handles matters within its jurisdiction. Do not rely on the arresting agency alone to decide where the case belongs.

Use the Fargo criminal-court resource center for current courthouse, jail, records, first-appearance, and practical preparation information.

Related Fargo criminal-defense guides

The complaint may cite more than one statute or use facts that overlap related offenses. Compare the individual elements and penalty rules rather than assuming the charges are interchangeable.

Your charge. Your deadlines. Your evidence.

Get a defense plan built around the actual file.

Bring the complaint, your next court date, release conditions, and any evidence that may disappear. Use a private consultation to identify the immediate priorities and the questions the prosecution’s evidence must answer.

Discuss the charge →

Complete topic directory

Explore every charge guide in this practice area

Use the page that matches the wording, offense level, or immediate decision shown on your paperwork. Related charges may share facts, but each linked guide explains its own elements, classification, penalties, evidence, and next steps.