Columbus Theft Crime Lawyer
Fighting Petty, Grand, and Aggravated Theft Charges in Columbus
Under Ohio law, if someone takes property or services from another individual without authorization or by deception, they could be charged with theft. The state classifies the crime as petty theft, felony theft, grand theft, aggravated theft, and theft from a person in a protected class based on the type and value of the property or the alleged victim. In some cases, the offense is a misdemeanor; in others, a felony. The penalties depend on the level and degree at which the crime is charged. If you have been accused of theft in Columbus, speak with a criminal defense attorney about your options for challenging the allegations.
At The Law Office of Matthew Doyaga, LLC, we deliver the caring yet aggressive defense individuals need when charged with a crime. Our Columbus theft defense lawyer recognizes that this can be a difficult and stressful time. That is why we deliver personalized and dedicated attention through every stage of a case. When you turn to us for legal representation, you will have a trusted confidant on your side, maintaining frequent and straightforward communication and treating you with the professionalism and respect you deserve. At our firm, we see you as more than a case or criminal charge. We see you as a person going through a challenging experience. Our attorney will fight to protect your best interests and work toward a favorable result on your behalf.
To schedule a free initial consultation with our Columbus theft attorney, please contact us at (888) 490-7958.
What Is Theft in Ohio?
Theft is defined in Ohio Revised Code § 2913.02 as knowingly obtaining the property or services of another with the intent to deprive them of it. To deprive someone of something means to take possession of it permanently or long enough that it loses its value or use.
A person might be accused of theft if they took property or services without the other’s permission. They may also be alleged to have violated the law if they used deception, threat, or intimidation to coerce the individual into relinquishing ownership.
What Are the Types of Theft in Ohio?
Ohio separates theft into different categories depending on what or who was involved. The offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
The types of theft include:
- Petty theft: An offense is considered petty theft if the property or services was valued at less than $1,000. It is a first-degree misdemeanor.
- Felony theft: Theft is a fifth-degree felony when the property or services was valued at $1,000 or more but less than $7,500.
- Grand theft: The crime is grand theft when:
- The property or services was valued at $7,500 or more but less than $150,000 (fourth-degree felony)
- The property was a motor vehicle (fourth-degree felony)
- The property was a firearm or dangerous ordnance (third-degree felony)
- Aggravated theft: An offense is aggravated theft when the value of the property or services was:
- $15,000 or more but less than $750,000 (third-degree felony)
- $750,000 or more but less than $1.5 million (second-degree felony)
- $1.5 million or more (first-degree felony)
- Theft from a member of a protected class: Members of a protected class include elderly persons, disabled adults, and active-duty service members or their spouses. The level of charges include:
- Fifth-degree felony (property or services valued at less than $1,000)
- Fourth-degree felony (property or services value at $1,000 or more but less than $7500)
- Third-degree felony (property or services valued at $7,500 or more but less than $37,500)
- Second-degree felony (property or services valued at $37,500 or more but less than $150,000)
- First-degree felony (property or services valued at $150,000 or more)
What Is the Punishment for Theft?
A conviction for theft can lead to incarceration and/or fines. The length of imprisonment and fine amount depend on the charge's level and degree.
Below are the potential penalties for first-degree misdemeanors and felonies in Ohio:
- First-degree misdemeanor:
- Not more than 180 days in jail
- Not more than $1,000 in fines
- Fifth-degree felony:
- Not more than 12 months in prison
- Not more than $2,500 in fines
- Fourth-degree felony:
- Not more than 18 months in prison
- Not more than $5,000 in fines
- Third-degree felony:
- Not more than 36 months in prison
- Not more than $10,000 in fines
- Second-degree felony:
- Not more than 12 years in prison
- Not more than $15,000 in fines
- First-degree felony:
- Not more than 16.5 years in prison
- Not more than $20,000 in fines
At The Law Office of Matthew Doyaga, LLC, our theft defense lawyer in Columbus works diligently to build aggressive legal strategies for our clients. We seek just outcomes to avoid or minimize penalties.
Get Started with a Free Consultation
The criminal justice process can be confusing and overwhelming. When you choose our team for legal counsel, you won’t go through it alone. We’ll be by your side zealously advocating on your behalf.
Please call (888) 490-7958 or submit an online contact form to discuss your case with us.