Washington § 9A.56.040 - Theft in the second degree.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 9A.56.040 — Theft in the second degree., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9A.56.040. Theft in the second degree.

(1) Except as provided in RCW 9A.56.400, a person is guilty of theft in the second degree if he or she commits theft of:
(a) Property or services which exceed(s) seven hundred fifty dollars in value but does not exceed five thousand dollars in value, other than a firearm as defined in RCW 9.41.010 or a motor vehicle;
(b) A public record, writing, or instrument kept, filed, or deposited according to law with or in the keeping of any public office or public servant;
(c) Commercial metal property, nonferrous metal property, or private metal property, as those terms are defined in *RCW 19.290.010, and the costs of the damage to the owner's property exceed seven hundred fifty dollars but does not exceed five thousand dollars in value; or
(d) An access device.
(2) Theft in the second degree is a class C felony.
[ 2017 c 266 s 11; 2013 c 322 s 3; 2012 c 233 s 3; 2009 c 431 s 8; 2007 c 199 s 4; 1995 c 129 s 12 (Initiative Measure No. 159); 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 433; 1987 c 140 s 2; 1982 1st ex.s. c 47 s 15; 1975 1st ex.s. c 260 s 9A.56.040.]

Notes

*Reviser's note: RCW 19.290.010 was amended by 2024 c 301 s 3, deleting the definition of "private metal property," effective April 1, 2025.
Finding—Intent—2017 c 266: See note following RCW 9A.42.020.
Applicability—2009 c 431: See note following RCW 4.24.230.
Findings—Intent—Short title—2007 c 199: See notes following RCW 9A.56.065.
Findings and intent—Short title—Severability—Captions not law—1995 c 129: See notes following RCW 9.94A.510.
Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.
Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 7 ss 401-410, 413-416, 418-437, and 439-460: See note following RCW 9.41.010.
Severability—1982 1st ex.s. c 47: See note following RCW 9.41.190.
Civil action for shoplifting by adults, minors: RCW 4.24.230.
Property crime database, liability: RCW 4.24.340.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 9A.56.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 9A.56.040 cover?

Section 9A.56.040 ("Theft in the second degree.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 9A.56.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 9A.56.040" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 9A.56.040 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.