Indianapolis Theft Crime Lawyer
Theft refers to taking control of another person’s property with the intention to deprive the owner of the property. It’s an act that can have serious consequences. Even theft of an asset of small value, such as during shoplifting, can come with harsh penalties and affect many aspects of your life.
Theft charges are based on the value of the stolen item. The higher the value, the more serious the charges. Under Indiana law, a person can face felony grand larceny charges when the stolen property or money involved is valued at more than $750.
Rigney Law LLC understands the effects of theft arrests and convictions. An experienced Indianapolis theft crime lawyer can help reduce your charges and keep a conviction from ruining your life.
Possible Consequences for Theft
Theft is not a minor crime. There are harsh consequences involved, such as:
- Many years in prison
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- Permanent criminal record
- Possible suspension of a professional license (such as for medicine or law)
- Deportation (if you’re not an American citizen)
The exact penalties will depend on the property’s value. Here’s the breakdown:
- Less than $750. If the value of the property is less than $750, the theft is considered a Class A misdemeanor. It is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
- $750 to $49,999. If the value of the property is $750 to $49,999, the theft is a Level 6 felony up to 2 ½ years in prison as well as a fine of up to $10,000.
- $50,000 or more. If the value of the stolen money or property is $50,000 or more, theft is a Level 5 felony punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of as much as $10,000.
Auto theft is charged differently. Stealing someone else’s car or stripping parts from the vehicle is a felony offense in Indiana. If you are convicted of auto theft or receiving a stolen vehicle or parts, the penalties vary depending on whether you have prior auto theft convictions.
Auto theft is a Level 6 felony punishable by up to 2 ½ years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000. A second or subsequent offense is a Level 5 felony, with penalties including six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Contact Rigney Law LLC Today
Theft is a crime of morality, so such a charge can make you look unfavorable to employers and even to friends and family members. You may be seen as someone who cannot be trusted.
The team at Rigney Law LLC will fight for you to get the best possible result in your case. Let us put the stress and trouble of your theft charge behind you. Schedule a free consultation with our Indianapolis theft crime lawyer by filling out the online form or calling (317) 623-0989.
