While the words “theft” and “robbery” are often used interchangeably on Ohio, the terms actually have significant differences. “Robbery” refers to the act of stealing someone’s property while directly threatening the individual. However, “theft” refers to stealing another person’s property without a direct confrontation. Committing theft comes with high penalties in the state of Ohio.
What are the penalties for committing theft in the state of Ohio?
A minor theft might be classified as a petty theft, which can result in up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fees. Petty theft is typically classified as a misdemeanor. If an individual stole property that was worth anywhere from $1,000 to $7,500, they might be facing up to a year in jail time and fines up to $2,500.
If the stolen property is worth $7,500 to $150,000, the individual is charged with grand theft. They might be facing up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000. Finally, theft of property that exceeds $150,000 in value is classified as aggravated theft. The individual may want to hire a criminal defense attorney because they could be facing up to 11 years in prison and $20,000 in fines depending on the severity of the charges.
Where can people accused of theft go for legal assistance?
Charges of theft or robbery can come with massive fines and lengthy prison time. To present the best possible case in court, an individual might wish to hire an attorney. Their attorney may be able to examine the facts and point out any flaws in the prosecution’s case. They might also help their client negotiate for reduced charges. With an attorney by their side, an individual might be able to protect their rights and resume their life as soon as possible.