In many states, theft crimes are categorized into two separate types of theft: Petit Theft and Grand Theft. But Indiana doesn’t use these terms, nor makes these divisions for theft crimes. Instead, the crime of theft in Indiana is either a felony or misdemeanor, depending on whether or not the person intended to deprive the owner of the property indefinitely. Also, the value of the property, type of property, and other details of the crime usually determine the distinction between misdemeanor and felony theft charges. If a person commits theft without the intention of depriving the property forever, Indiana will charge this as “criminal conversion” instead of a felony theft charge. An example of criminal conversion would be borrowing a person’s car without their permission, but with the intent of returning it when finished. If you commit this crime, you could face Class A misdemeanor criminal charges. In some instances, Indiana will charge a person with a Class A misdemeanor if the property value is under a certain dollar amount; and amount that is generally at the prosecutor’s discretion.
Stolen Property Valued Less Than $750 = Class A Misdemeanor
Stolen Property Valued Between $750 & $ 49,000 = Level 6 Felony
Stolen Property Valued Over $50,000 = Level 5 Felony
Theft crimes are increased to Level 5 Felonies under any of the following circumstances:
(a) Theft of a Motor Vehicle
(b) Stolen Property is Valued at $50,000 or More
(c) “Theft of valuable metals taken from a public utility, transportation system, telecommunications provider, or hospital, in which the absence of the metal creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to a person.” (Ind. Code Ann. § 35-43-4-2)
Level 5 Felonies are punishable by 2 to 8 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and additional strict penalties. See our
Levels of Punishment page for details.
After being arrested and charged with a theft crime, you need the strongest protection against state and federal prosecution. David. E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, has extensive trial and litigation experience, and will aggressively challenge every aspect of your charges before he lets you become another victim of over-penalization in Indiana. He uses the law in his favor to refute theft charges and get your penalties reduced or dismissed. With him on your side, there’s no need to fear the worst. David E. Lewis handles every case personally, and will use every resource out there to make sure your future and freedoms are protected. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule your first consultation to evaluate your case. Don’t let the prosecution get a head start; call today to secure your defense!
Our Genuine Pledge to Our Clients:
Our Law Firm Vows to...
Respect All Clients & Never Pass Judgement
Build a Custom Defense for Each Individual Client
Preserve Clients’ Freedoms & Protect their Rights
Keep Clients Fully-Informed at All Times
Never Give Up or Back Down
Our Results Are Real. Our Victories are Real. We Will Fight For Your Rights!
You’re Not Alone. Help is Here for You. Talk to a Criminal Attorney Today.
We’ve Represented and Helped Several Satisfied Clients in Indiana!