Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

In Kansas, a level 8 felony is considered a lower-level felony offense on the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines grid. Felonies in Kansas are ranked by severity from level 1 (most serious) to level 10 (least serious) for non-drug crimes. Level 8 felonies are still serious crimes, but they are not as severe as felonies in the higher levels of the grid.

Types of Crimes That May Be Classified as Level 8 Felonies

Level 8 felonies typically involve non-violent offenses or lower-impact crimes. Examples may include,

• Theft of property or services within a certain value range
• Criminal damage to property without physical harm to others
• Unlawful possession of certain types of stolen property
• Making false information in official records

The exact classification can depend on the facts of the case, whether the person has prior convictions, and whether the offense involved aggravating circumstances.

Sentencing for a Level 8 Felony

Sentencing for a level 8 felony is determined by the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines grid, which uses both the severity level of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history. Each defendant falls into a criminal history category ranging from A (serious or repeat offender) to I (no or minimal prior criminal record).

For individuals with little or no criminal history, a level 8 felony may result in,

• Presumptive probation
• A short prison sentence of 7 to 23 months

Those with a more serious criminal history may face longer prison terms or less likelihood of probation. The court may also impose fines, restitution, and mandatory supervision after release.

Additional Consequences

A level 8 felony conviction carries more than just the possibility of incarceration. Other long-term effects may include,

• A permanent criminal record
• Loss of certain civil rights while under supervision
• Difficulty finding employment or housing
• Restrictions on owning firearms

Some level 8 felony convictions may also affect future sentencing if the person is charged again in the future, especially if the new charge is more serious.

A level 8 felony in Kansas is a lower-mid level felony that can result in probation or prison time depending on criminal history. While it is less severe than higher-level felonies, it still carries significant legal and personal consequences. Anyone facing a level 8 charge should understand their rights, the sentencing range, and the potential impact on their future.