Official Text
“Whoever habitually deals in stolen property, shall be punished.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Habitual dealing.
- In stolen property.
- Regular pattern of dealing.
Potential Defenses:
- No habitual dealing.
- Legitimate business.
- Authorized dealing.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Regular buying and selling of stolen goods, operating stolen property business, frequent dealing in stolen items.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Occasional purchase, legitimate business, or authorized dealing.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 7 years, and Fine