Bill > SB705

This bill establishes a new crime called "theft by conversion," which occurs when someone lawfully obtains money or property under an agreement or legal obligation for a specific purpose but knowingly uses it for their own benefit instead, violating that agreement. The bill defines "property" to include leased or rented personal property, and "personal property" as items valued over $100 (excluding late fees, but including heavy equipment and agricultural machinery). "Funds" are defined broadly to include cash, checks, money orders, and electronic transfers. Penalties vary based on the value of the converted property: a misdemeanor offense for amounts less than $2,500, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine, and a felony offense for amounts of $2,500 or more, carrying a prison sentence of one to ten years and a fine of up to $2,500. The bill also clarifies that this offense applies even if the person mixes their own funds with the victim's, as long as the agreement allowed them to treat the property as their own, and mandates restitution to victims. Finally, it specifies that legal proceedings can take place in the county where the defendant or victim lives, or where the property is located or the agreement was made.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=705&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill