Can Failure to Return Keys be Prosecuted as Larceny

[lawfacts]

A former volunteer for a nonprofit organization has keys to the organization's buildings and vehicle. When person stopped volunteering, the organization asked for the return of the keys. Despite several requests over the space of several weeks, the person has not returned the keys. Is keeping the keys potentially something that could result in theft charges?

[Mr. Knowitall]

Depending upon the reasons why the person has not returned the keys, there is potential for a theft charge. Even if not initially treating the retention of the keys as theft, if the person has no good reason for not returning the keys, the police may be willing to contact the person and tell them that more serious consequences will result if they fail to return them.