Criminal Law - Misdemeanor Theft - Statute of Limitations

HB 109 modifies Maryland's statute of limitations for misdemeanor theft cases. It extends the time prosecutors have to file charges for theft of property or services valued at $100-$1,500 from 2 to 3 years after the crime occurs. For theft under $100, the existing 2-year limit remains unchanged. The bill directly affects prosecutors (who gain more time to pursue cases), defendants (who face potential prosecution for longer), and victims (who have more time to report incidents). It does not change penalties or definitions of theft, only the timeframe for prosecution.