My College Student Has Been Charged with Theft – What’s Next?

 Posted on November 29, 2025 in University of Tennessee Knoxville College Students

A theft charge can hit a Tennessee college family fast, with little warning. One minute, your student is settling into dorm life; the next, he or she is being questioned by campus police or charged criminally – something that can alter his or her future. College life is hectic, and misunderstandings happen, but when an item goes missing in a dorm or elsewhere on campus, the campus police may act aggressively to file theft charges.

Even the allegations of theft can jeopardize your child’s scholarships, housing, sports eligibility, and even immigration status for international students. Even when the value is relatively low, Tennessee treats theft as a serious offense, and the combination of criminal court and university discipline can overwhelm families.

If your son or daughter has been accused of theft, the steps you take now can make all the difference in the outcome. A highly experienced Anderson County, TN criminal defense attorney can immediately begin building a strong defense on your child’s behalf to minimize the current and future damage.

Understanding Theft Charges Under Tennessee Law

Tennessee theft law (Tenn. Code Ann. Section 39-14-103) covers any situation where a person knowingly takes or exercises control over another’s property without that person’s consent and with the intent to deprive the owner. On college campuses, theft charges may arise from the following scenarios:

• Shoplifting at the campus bookstore or nearby retailers
• Borrowing a roommate’s property without permission
• Taking items from a fraternity or sorority house
• Electronic property theft, such as campus credentials or paid digital accounts

The severity of the charges depends on the value of the item. For amounts under $1,000, the charge is a Class A misdemeanor with penalties of up to 11 months and 20 days in jail. Amounts between $1,000 and $2,500 are charged as a Class E felony, with penalties of one to six years in prison. Higher amounts result in more serious felony levels.

Most Tennessee college students charged with low-level theft may qualify for diversion, which can significantly protect their future. If granted, the case is deferred, and the charge can be dismissed and expunged after successful completion of the terms, which may include restitution, community service, and supervision.

What Happens Immediately After the Student is Charged?

Depending on the police department involved (campus police vs. city or county police), your child may be arrested or issued a citation instead of an arrest. He or she may be required to appear at an arraignment or may be booked and released. Parental notification will vary depending on the student’s age and the school's policy. Some universities notify parents only after a conduct violation is initiated, but not at the time of the arrest.

The University Conduct Process: A Separate Proceeding

Many parents may be surprised to learn that universities conduct their own internal disciplinary hearings, entirely separate from the criminal case. These proceedings may include investigations by campus police, student conduct hearings, and sanctions such as probation, loss of housing, or removal from campus roles. Students can inadvertently incriminate themselves during a university interview or hearing, and statements made on campus can later be used by criminal prosecutors. This is why it is crucial to have a strong criminal defense lawyer for your student from the very beginning.

Contact an Oakridge, TN Criminal Defense Lawyer

Theft allegations are among the most stressful situations a Tennessee college student and his or her parents may face. These allegations may stem from a misunderstanding, a moment of poor judgment, or a conflict with a roommate. Regardless of how it begins, it is essential that your child have a highly skilled Anderson County, TN theft crimes attorney from The Baker Law Firm. Attorney Baker understands the long-term damage a conviction can have on your child and will aggressively defend the charges. To schedule your free consultation, call 865-200-4117.