A theft charge in Ohio carries serious implications, from misdemeanor penalties to felony sanctions with potential prison terms. The severity depends on factors like property value, use of force, victim identity, and type of items taken.
Beyond immediate criminal penalties, a conviction can impact employment, licensing, housing, and immigration status, while also exposing defendants to civil liability of up to triple damages plus fees. Given these far-reaching consequences, immediate and strategic defense is essential.
Theft occurs when a person, with the purpose to deprive the owner of his property, knowingly obtains or exerts control over the property (a) without the owner’s consent; (b) beyond the scope of the owner’s consent; (c) by deception; (d) by threat; or (e) by intimidation. Shoplifting from a store is a common example of theft. (Revised Code Section 2913.02)
Sometimes a theft charge might be reduced to an unauthorized use of property charge, which states, "No person shall knowingly use or operate the property of another without the consent of the owner or person authorized to give consent." Unauthorized use is, in many circumstances, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree with penalties including jail up to 30 days and a fine up to $250.00
If you are convicted of theft, the property owner may sue you for their choice of either:
A. The value of the property AND liquidated damages ($50 if value of property was $50 or less; $100.00 if value of the property was more than $50 up to $100; or $150 if the value of the property was more than $100)
OR
B. Liquidated damages of whichever is greater of $200 or three times the value of the property.
The property owner may also be entitled to administrative costs, attorney’s fees, and costs in bringing the civil suit.
Smith's Law Offices leverage their proven skills and experience to challenge and defend against all theft charges. They work diligently to obtain dismissals, seek reduced plea agreements, and secure diversion programs to mitigate the consequences you may face. Smith's Law Offices will aggressively advocate for your rights. To safeguard your interests, contact them immediately—before mistakes are made and your rights are compromised.
We Have You Covered:
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Brian J. Smith provide criminal defense representation in courts along the North Coast of Ohio, including all courts in the following counties: Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Erie, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Ottawa, Portage, Sandusky, and Summit.
