Washington § 9A.56.140 - Possessing stolen property — Definition — Presumption.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 9A.56.140 — Possessing stolen property — Definition — Presumption., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9A.56.140. Possessing stolen property — Definition — Presumption.

(1) "Possessing stolen property" means knowingly to receive, retain, possess, conceal, or dispose of stolen property knowing that it has been stolen and to withhold or appropriate the same to the use of any person other than the true owner or person entitled thereto.
(2) The fact that the person who stole the property has not been convicted, apprehended, or identified is not a defense to a charge of possessing stolen property.
(3) When a person has in his or her possession, or under his or her control, stolen access devices issued in the names of two or more persons, or ten or more stolen merchandise pallets, or ten or more stolen beverage crates, or a combination of ten or more stolen merchandise pallets and beverage crates, as defined under RCW 9A.56.010, he or she is presumed to know that they are stolen.
(4) The presumption in subsection (3) of this section is rebuttable by evidence raising a reasonable inference that the possession of such stolen access devices, merchandise pallets, or beverage crates was without knowledge that they were stolen.
(5) In any prosecution for possessing stolen property, it is a sufficient defense that the property was merchandise pallets that were received by a pallet recycler or repairer in the ordinary course of its business.
[ 2004 c 122 s 2; 1998 c 236 s 3; 1987 c 140 s 3; 1975 1st ex.s. c 260 s 9A.56.140.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 9A.56.140

What does Revised Code of Washington § 9A.56.140 cover?

Section 9A.56.140 ("Possessing stolen property — Definition — Presumption.") 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.56.140?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 9A.56.140" (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.56.140 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

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