Theft Crimes Attorney

Theft Crimes Lawyer In Bellefontaine, OH

Theft charges can have a major impact on your future. Ohio treats theft offenses seriously, even when they involve relatively low-value items. Whether you’ve been accused of shoplifting, grand theft, receiving stolen property, or another type of theft offense, you could be sentenced to incarceration and other harsh consequences.

A conviction can make it difficult to secure employment, qualify for housing, obtain professional licenses, and pursue educational opportunities. It can also damage your reputation in your community. Many people do not realize how theft convictions can follow them long after they pay the fine or serve their sentence.

McNamee Defense knows how disruptive a theft charge can be. Every case is different, and we approach each one with discretion and a strong commitment to protecting your rights. When we take your case, we listen to your side of the story and begin investigating right away. Our goal is to fight for the best resolution possible.

So, if you’re facing a theft charge, don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Contact McNamee Defense today to discuss your options.

Common Theft Crimes We Defend

Even petty theft crimes can have life-altering consequences. Below are some of the most common charges we tackle.

Petty Theft

Petty theft occurs when someone takes property valued at less than $1,000 without the owner’s permission. Even though this is a lower-level offense, this first-degree misdemeanor can result in up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a conviction can stay on your record and affect your future.

Felony Theft and Grand Theft

If the value of stolen property is $1,000 or more, theft is charged as a felony. Felony theft carries stricter penalties, including prison time. Grand theft is typically a felony of the fourth degree or higher and can involve stealing a motor vehicle, firearm, or property exceeding specific value thresholds. You could face years of prison time and steep fines.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud

Shoplifting and retail fraud are misdemeanors—as long as the value of the stolen items is small. Even a single offense can lead to jail time and fines, and retailers may push aggressively for criminal charges. Shoplifting allegations can escalate to felony theft if the stolen merchandise is more than $1,000.

Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving stolen property is a serious offense. Knowingly accepting or possessing stolen property can result in misdemeanor charges. If the property has significant value, you can be charged with a felony. Prosecutors often seek harsh penalties in these cases, so a strong defense is key.

Embezzlement and Employee Theft

Embezzlement and employee theft occur when someone steals funds or property entrusted to them as part of their employment. Even if an employee has access to company accounts or inventory, misusing that access can lead to serious theft charges. These cases often require a careful review of company policies and financial records to build a strong defense.

Robbery

Although often charged as a violent offense, robbery is a type of theft crime. Robbery involves the use of force or threat of force during a theft. It is charged as a felony of the second or third degree, with significant prison time and long-term consequences if convicted.

Each of these offenses can have serious repercussions. Working with an experienced defense team is key to challenging the evidence and fighting for the most favorable outcome. McNamee Defense can help. Reach out today for a case review.

Potential Penalties and Collateral Consequences for Theft Offenses

Even petty theft can result in jail time, while felony theft and grand theft often involve prison terms of 18 months or more. Courts frequently order restitution, which requires paying back the full value of any stolen property.

A conviction follows you long after the sentence is served. Beyond jail and fines, theft convictions can affect your future in many ways:

• Employers typically view theft charges as a red flag, making it harder to pass background checks and obtain stable work.

• Landlords and property managers may deny housing applications due to your criminal record.

• Professional licensing boards often require disclosure of any theft convictions and can restrict or revoke licenses.

• Immigrants face increased scrutiny and risk of removal.

Because these consequences can affect every area of your life, it’s important to avoid a conviction whenever possible. Our attorneys can advocate for dismissed or reduced charges and alternative sentencing options like diversion programs.

What to Do if You’re Charged with a Theft Crime

What you do can affect your case. Staying calm and focused is key. 

Here’s what to do next if you’re arrested:

• Exercise your right to remain silent: Do not try to explain, justify, or talk your way out of the situation. Officers and investigators may seem friendly, but their job is to gather evidence against you. Beyond providing your name and basic identifying information, you should politely decline to answer questions until your attorney is present.

• Do not consent to searches or hand over evidence: You have the right to refuse a search unless officers have a valid warrant. Your attorney can intervene in searches or guide you as to whether handing over evidence is helpful.

• Avoid talking about the case to friends, family, or on social media: Anything you say can be used by prosecutors to build a case. Even casual remarks can be taken out of context and presented as evidence in court.

• Keep all paperwork and materials: Save police reports, surveillance footage, property receipts, and any other documents you receive or believe may be helpful. These materials will be important for building a defense.

McNamee Defense can provide immediate guidance during investigations or after arrest. We step in to protect your rights during police interviews. Then, we’ll review the evidence and communicate with the prosecutor before formal charges are finalized. Early intervention gives us the opportunity to challenge improper procedures and begin working toward a favorable resolution. The sooner you reach out, the more options we have to protect your record.

Defense Strategies for Theft Charges

There are many ways to challenge theft allegations. Every case is unique, and the most effective strategy depends on the facts. 

Some of the most common defenses include:

• Lack of intent: Prosecutors must prove you intended to steal or permanently deprive the owner of their property. If you never intended to take anything unlawfully, the charge may not hold up in court.

• Mistaken identity: Unreliable witness accounts or unclear video can lead to false allegations.

• Ownership or consent: If you believed the property was yours, or if the owner gave you permission to take or use it, it’s not theft.

• Insufficient evidence: Prosecutors must present enough credible evidence to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If they can’t, we’ll fight for case dismissal or another favorable outcome.

• Duress or coercion: If someone pressured or threatened you into taking property, we will present evidence to mitigate the potential penalties.

Choosing the right defense can mean the difference between a conviction and a more favorable outcome. McNamee Defense is here to evaluate every defense option and fight for your rights.

Take the Next Steps with McNamee Defense

A theft charge puts your future on the line. Fortunately, charges are not convictions. McNamee Defense can help you understand your options and work to protect your record. Whether your case can be resolved quickly through negotiation or requires a strong defense in court, we give every matter the attention and care it deserves. Contact us today for a consultation.