Are Burglary and Robbery Charges the Same in Indiana?

Posted on October 4, 2021 by admin

Burglary and robbery are two separate types of theft crimes that come with a separate set of penalties here in Indiana. Continue reading to learn the difference between burglary and robbery, including how they are penalized and the best way to avoid their maximum penalties.

Theft Lawyer Indianapolis IN 317-636-7514

Burglary and Robbery Fall Under the Category of Theft

It is common to confuse the crime of burglary with the crime of robbery. Many are unaware that there is a distinct legal difference.

► Robbery – Robbery is the crime of taking a person’s property or money by force, violence, or intimidation, with the intent of withholding such property from them permanently.

►Burglary – Burglary is the crime of illegally entering or breaking into a residence, building, or structure with the intent of committing a felony-level theft offense.

Here in Indiana, the punishments for burglary and theft are much different, and depend on the specific variables of the crime.

Burglary Penalties in Indiana

If a person breaks into a place that is not a dwelling or residence, such as a business or storage unit, the act is charged as a Level 5 felony. Level 5 felons are generally sentenced to anywhere from 1 to 6 years in prison with an advisory jail time of 3 years, and up to $10,000 in fines.

If a person unlawfully enters or breaks into a dwelling or residence, such as a house, apartment, condominium, mobile home, or town home, the act is charged as a Level 4 felony. Level 4 felonies are punishable by 2 to 12 years in prison with an advisory jail time of 6 years, and up to $10,000 in fines.

If a person is injured during the burglary, the offense bumps up to a Level 3 felony, which is punishable by 3 to 16 years in prison with an advisory jail time of 9 years, and up to $10,000 in fines.

See the Indiana Code Section 35-43-2-1 to learn the details surrounding the statutes and penalties for burglary.

Robbery Penalties in Indiana

If a person commits the crime of robbery, they are generally charged with a Level 5 Felony, which is penalized by up to 6 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

If a person uses a deadly weapon to commit robbery, it is charged as armed robbery, which comes with more serious penalties. Armed robbery is charged as a Level 3 Felony, which as already mentioned, is punishable by up to 16 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

Repeat offenders can face up to three times the advisory prison sentences for robbery.

See the Indiana Code Section 35-43-5-1 to learn the details surrounding the statutes and penalties for robbery.

Are you facing felony theft charges like robbery or burglary in Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for the best chance at reducing or beating your theft charges in Indianapolis. We represent defendants all throughout the state, and can hold consultations and meetings in person or over the phone.

You Should Also Read:

The Difference Between Car Theft and Grand Theft Auto
Were You Charged With Misdemeanor or Felony Theft in Indiana?
Typical Sentence for Indiana Shoplifting Charge

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514 — Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

Common Types of Property Crimes and Penalties in Indiana

Posted on August 3, 2021 by admin

There are several different types of property crimes that one can commit here in Indiana. From vandalism to arson, and many in between, Indiana does not take such offenses lightly. If you or someone you love was recently arrested or indicted on property crime charges, it is vital to hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

In the meantime, continue below to review some of the most common types of property crimes in Indiana and the penalties that generally follow if convicted.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

What is a Property Crime?

A property crime is any type of intentional or unintentional act of destruction or theft to a private or public premises. In Indiana, they are punishable on a wide scale depending on circumstances and details of the crime, from Class C Misdemeanors to Level 1 Felonies.

☛ See Sentencing Guidelines for Indiana

Here are the most common types of property crimes in Indiana:

Theft

Also called larceny, theft crimes are any acts of intentionally and knowledgeably exerting control over one’s property without consent or authorization. “Exerting control” can mean a variety of actions, including taking, possessing, obtaining, controlling, leading away, carrying, driving, concealing, selling, abandon, encumbering, conveying, transferring, securing, reproducing, or extending a right to another’s property. Theft convictions range from Class A Misdemeanors to Level 5 Felonies depending on the value of stolen items and various other details.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a type of theft crime in which a person intentionally conceals merchandise from a retail store without any intention of paying for it. Putting a book in your inside jacket pocket or a necklace in your purse at a store so that you can walk out without paying for them are examples of shoplifting. Shoplifting sentences depend on the total value of the items, but they commonly range from low level infractions to Class A Misdemeanors. In more serious cases, shoplifting charges can be Felonies.

Burglary

Burglary is another subcategory of theft. Different from robbery, which involves the use of a weapon, burglary is the act of unlawfully and forcibly entering a house, building, or enclosed structure with the intent of stealing property or possessions. It can also be unlawfully entering a house or enclosed structure for the purpose of committing another type of illegal act. Like most theft crimes, the charges for burglary can range from low misdemeanors to high felonies depending on the circumstances of the crime.

Robbery

Robbery is the crime of burglary and theft all in one, but with the use of a deadly weapon, force, or threat of force. Commanding a cashier to hand over all of the money in the cash register while showing them a gun on your belt would be the crime of robbery. Robbery is a serious theft crime, so it comes with much higher charges and penalties, usually Felonies.

Arson

Arson is the crime of intentionally setting fire to or burning a house, building, structure, or area of property such as a forest or park. If someone commits the violent crime of arson, and as a result, someone suffered bodily injury, the level of punishment drastically increases, as do the subsequent penalties upon conviction. Minor cases of arson, usually with juveniles, result in Misdemeanors, while more serious crimes of arson are charged as felonies.

Vandalism

Vandalism is a very common crime that can be as minor as writing your name in marker on the bathroom stall to graffitiing an entire building façade with spray paint. Any act that degrades, devalues, destructs, defaces, damages, or destroys a property is considered a crime of vandalism. Like most property crimes, the level of punishment depends on the severity of the crime and total value of damage. Sentences range from low-level infractions to Level 5 felonies.

Are you facing criminal charges for one of these types of property crimes in Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free case evaluation for theft crimes in Indianapolis, IN today.

You Should Also Read:

Is it Possible to Reduce My Criminal Charges?
Possible Court-Ordered Penalties for Felonies and Misdemeanors in Indiana
Can I Be Arrested for Setting a Fire on My Property?

Were You Charged With Misdemeanor or Felony Theft in Indiana?

Posted on March 4, 2021 by admin

Contact Attorney David E. Lewis if Were Arrested on for a Theft Crime in Indiana

Whether you have pending shoplifting, robbery, burglary, or grand theft auto charges, our skilled Indianapolis criminal defense legal teams are aggressive, and can build you a strong and impactful defense to protect you from the maximum penalties for your theft charges in Indiana.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514 — Theft Crime Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Indiana Theft Charges are No Match for Attorney David E. Lewis

When it comes to theft charges, it is critical to choose the right defense attorney to preserve and protect your rights. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, provides a level of defense that few other firms can match. He will build a strong argument for your case to gain a more promising outcome for you and your future.

Whether arrested for burglary or grand theft auto, our Indianapolis Indiana criminal defense law firm has the drive and determination necessary to reduce theft charges, dismiss cases, or enter into an alternative sentencing agreement. Our esteemed and seasoned legal teams will stop at nothing to win a more successful outcome in court for you. We work hard to protect our client’s well-being, future, and good name.

Sentences for Theft Crimes in Indiana

In Indiana, shoplifting (or theft) will get you anywhere from Class A Misdemeanor, all the way up to a Level 5 felony. The level of punishment for shoplifting depends on the total value of the items or goods stolen.

► Stolen Property Less than $750 = Class A Misdemeanor
► Stolen Property Between $750 – $50,000 = Level 6 Felony
► Stolen Property Greater Than $50,000 or a Motor Vehicle = Level 5 Felony

Preserving Your Rights and Protecting Your Freedoms After a Theft Arrest in Indiana

Attorney David E. Lewis and his seasoned staff of legal professionals know exactly how the criminal law process works here in Indiana, and on a Federal level. Our law firm has a full understanding of courtroom strategies and tactics, and remain current and well-versed in criminal legislation. Whether you are facing grand theft auto, robbery, shoplifting, burglary, or some other petit grand theft crime that falls between, our acute knowledge and years of hands-on experience gives us the litigation skills needed to get the best possible resolution to your Indiana criminal case. Attorney David E. Lewis stops at nothing to make sure your rights are protected, and your freedoms preserved. This means avoiding jail time.

Arrested for theft crimes in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free case evaluation online, over-the-phone, or in-person at our Indianapolis office.

You Should Also Read:

The Difference Between Car Theft and Grand Theft Auto
Standard Indiana Penalties for Theft Convictions
Typical Sentence for Indiana Shoplifting Charge

Common Arrests That Happen on Halloween and How to Avoid Them

Posted on October 28, 2020 by admin

Halloween is a fun and festive seasonal holiday that brings about all sorts of innocent mischief. But sometimes, after too much celebrating, adults can find themselves in a not-so-innocent position with the law. In fact, a much higher number of arrests happen on this night compared to most other nights of the year. So, if you are planning to hit the streets this weekend to celebrate Halloween with your friends and loved ones, be sure you are behaving safely, and within the law. The police will be out policing, doing their job to protect us and the community from danger, which means you have a higher chance at being caught in the middle of mischievous conduct. Perhaps learning which types of arrests are more frequent on Halloween can give yourself a good reminder on which situations to avoid.

Continue reading to do just that, as well as what to do if you or a loved one is taken to jail on Halloween.

The Most Common Types of Halloween Arrests

► Drunk Driving Arrests

Between parties and bar crawls, many people on Halloween are drinking alcohol. Since a larger number of people are drinking, more people are drinking and driving, which is why there are a lot of DUI arrests that take place on Halloween. Do not drive after having more than 1 drink to be safe. There will be DUI checkpoints out this weekend, so do not set yourself up for failure. A Lyft or Uber is much cheaper than all the court costs, fines, and probation fees you’ll have to pay if charged with a DUI.

► Public Intoxication Arrests

We’ve covered that people drink a lot more on holidays like Halloween. There are parties outdoors, in neighborhoods, and on the strips of popular city areas. This combination leads to a larger number of public intoxication charges. Just because you choose to not drive does not mean that you can’t still be arrested for being drunk. So long as you are not a public nuisance and disturbing the peace, you should be fine hopping from bar to bar, or walking home. If you are passed out, getting sick in public, being aggressive with others, making threats, or simply being too loud, you could be putting yourself at risk for a PI or disorderly conduct arrest.

► Assault and Battery Arrests

As mentioned, alcohol consumption plays a large role in Halloween festivities. And when people drink, their emotions can tend to heighten. For this reason, a high number of altercations take place in bars, at house parties, and on the streets. If you make threats, attempt to harm, or actually assault another person, you could be at risk of being arrested for assault. Claiming to kill someone or hurt them can be charged as assault, while physical contact is battery.

► Theft Arrests

On Halloween, a lot of theft happens. On any holiday where people tend to be out of their houses attending other parties or festivities, home burglaries and car thefts are more common. Since people are also masked at night on this holiday, it is easier for thieves to conceal their identity, or evade looking suspicious to others in the community.

What to Do After Being Arrested on Halloween

If by some flash of bad luck, or simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time, you or a loved one is arrested this Halloween, immediately contact an Indianapolis criminal lawyer so they can begin building an impactful, rock-solid defense against your charges. The longer you wait to retain legal counsel, the more time you waste protecting your rights and preserving your freedoms. In fact, after an arrest, your next few moves will greatly influence the outcome of your case. So, having a skilled and experienced defense attorney on the job is a monumental advantage. In the case that you are arrested this weekend, it is vital to remain calm and make good decisions. Here’s how to do that.

An Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer That Won’t Back Down

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 if you are arrested on Halloween in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our criminal defense law firm works around the clock to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, has decades of trial and litigation experience, and will stop at nothing to obtain a more favorable outcome to your criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with an Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust.

Typical Sentence for Indiana Shoplifting Charge

Posted on March 18, 2020 by admin

Were you recently arrested for shoplifting? Petty or not, you are facing some serious criminal charges as an Indiana resident. However, with the right representation and knowledge, you can fight your shoplifting charges in order to avoid the maximum penalties typically handed down in court upon sentencing. Continue reading to learn what to expect in terms of being sentenced for shoplifting in Indiana, as well as, who to trust for aggressive criminal defense near you.

Indiana Shoplifting Crimes

Here in Indiana, the crime of shoplifting falls under the umbrella category of larceny, which is theft. In fact, there is not a separate crime specifically for shoplifting; it is simply charged as theft. In However, shoplifting is still appointed a definition, which is willfully taking and concealing merchandise that is for sale, and in turn, permanently depriving the owner of the merchandise by not paying the purchasing price. From minor shoplifting and burglary, to robbery, fraud, grand theft auto, embezzlement, and more, the list of possible types of theft crimes is virtually endless.

Theft Penalties

Unfortunately, theft is charged as a felony in our state. But when it comes to the crime of shoplifting, you can feel relief knowing that, because it is more on the minor side of theft offenses, shoplifters are often prosecuted for a lesser offense known as conversion, which is typically a Class A Misdemeanor. You see, while theft is considered an act of taking something that belongs to someone else with the intention of depriving them of that item forever, the act of conversion occurs when a person takes something from someone without permission, but with the intention of returning. This is referred to under law as criminal conversion, which is a less severe charge than theft. An example of criminal conversions would be if a person takes another person’s car without permission, but intends on returning it to the owner later on.

However, after being arrested for shoplifting, it is not guaranteed that you will be charged with conversion. That is because the overall monetary value of the items stolen will greatly affect your ultimate sentence. The higher the value, the more severe of a sentence you can expect. In Indiana, shoplifting (or theft) will get you anywhere from Class A Misdemeanor, all the way up to a Level 5 felony. The level of punishment for shoplifting depends on the total value of the items or goods stolen.

Here are the standard sentences for shoplifting in Indiana, which can be read in detail under Indiana Code §35-43-4-1 through §35-43-4-3:

Value Less than $750 = Class A Misdemeanor
Value Between $750 and $50,000 = Level 6 Felony
Value Greater Than $50,000 (or a Vehicle) = Level 5 Felony

Prosecutors in Indiana have the discretion of charging a defendant with something as low as an infraction, to something as high as a Level 5 felony. For instance, a teenager who steals a pack of gum from the gas station will likely get off with an infraction, while a habitual cat burglar will be handed down a severe sentence that likely includes jail time.

Your Best Option for Beating an Indiana Theft Charge

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you have been charged with shoplifting or theft in Indianapolis or anywhere else within Central Indiana. Our law firm offers aggressive and experienced criminal defense for anyone facing theft crimes in Indiana. Don’t settle for an attorney that doesn’t have the drive. Attorney David E. Lewis will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. We also offer criminal record expungement services to help clean up your criminal history and improve your quality of life!

The Difference Between Car Theft and Grand Theft Auto

Posted on October 14, 2019 by admin

Last week, we cleared up the confusion regarding the difference between burglary crimes and robbery crimes. Today, we will continue the discussion of Indiana theft laws and penalties by outlining the difference between two very common types of theft that involve cars: car theft and grand theft auto. Continue reading to get started.

Car Theft

Grand theft auto is the same offense as car theft. If a person steals a vehicle with the intent of keeping it, or not returning it, it is considered the crime of grand theft auto.

Theft of a motor vehicle is a Level 5 Felony crime in Indiana, which are punishable by 2 to 8 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and additional strict penalties. The type of felony and subsequent penalties can increase depending on the details and circumstances of the crime. Furthermore, auto theft does not apply to just cars and trucks; it also includes boats, motorcycles, campers, and other vehicles.

Criminal Conversion Theft

If a person commits theft of a vehicle 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.

Unauthorized Use (Joy-Riding)

If a person takes another person’s vehicle without permission with the intent to return it, they are violating Indiana’s Unauthorized Control of a Vehicle Statute, a crime commonly called joy-riding. Although it is a crime, it is not a car theft crime. Instead, it is charged as a less serious misdemeanor crime.

Car Rental Theft

In the case that a person rents a vehicle from a commercial business, and then fails to return it after 30 days of signing the rental car agreement (or 3 days following a written demand for the vehicle’s return), then they are guilty of an auto theft crime. If a written or mailed demand for the vehicle’s return is sent to the address on the signed agreement (in which case they would have 3 days to comply), but the person no longer lives there, they cannot use that as a defense.

Obtain an Aggressive Car Theft Lawyer in Indiana

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you have been charged with grand theft auto in Indianapolis or anywhere else within Central Indiana. He offers aggressive and experienced criminal defense for anyone facing car theft charges in Indiana. Don’t settle for an attorney that doesn’t have the drive. Attorney David E. Lewis will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. We also offer criminal record expungement services to help clean up your criminal history and improve your quality of life!

The Difference Between Robbery and Burglary

Posted on October 9, 2019 by admin

Theft is an umbrella offense, meaning it is a category that encompasses a larger scope of crimes. Two of the most common types of theft crimes are burglary and robbery. In fact, you have likely watched movies depicting sneaky burglars and quick-handed bank robbers. But many assume these two terms are synonymous, when in fact, they are quite different; especially when you ask the law.

Continue reading to learn what these two crimes mean, and what you need to do if you or someone you love is facing theft charges in Indiana.

Indiana Robbery Criminal Attorney 317-636-7514

The Crime of Theft in Indiana

According to the statute decreed in Indiana Code § 35-43-4-1, “A person who knowingly or intentionally exerts unauthorized control over property of another person, with intent to deprive the other person of any part of its value or use, commits theft.” Whether the crime of theft is burglary or robbery has a big impact on the severity of punishment an offender faces if caught by the authorities.

Burglary

A burglar is someone who breaks and enters into private commercial or residential property for the purpose of committing a felony or stealing something of value that does not belong to them. Here in Indiana, all forms of burglary are felony crimes, but ones that occur in a home or dwelling, or with the use of a deadly weapon, carry even higher punishment. The type of felony one faces depends on the type of structure or property they broke into, as well as, any existing enhancements (gun possession, deadly weapon, etc.). See the Indiana Code Section 35-43-2-1 to learn the details surrounding the statutes and penalties for burglary.

➣ Basic Commercial Burglary – Level 5 Felony
➣ Residential Burglary – Level 4 Felony
➣ Burglary Resulting in Physical Injury – Level 3 Felony
➣ Burglary While Armed with Deadly Weapon: Level 2 Felony
➣ Residential Burglary Resulting in Physical Injury : Level 1 Felony

Robbery

A robber is someone who uses force, intimidation, or violence against another person to commit a crime of theft. When an offender uses a deadly weapon to commit robbery, it is considered armed robbery, and is a more serious offense. See the Indiana Code Section 35-43-5-1 to learn the details surrounding the statutes and penalties for robbery.

➣ Robbery: Level 5 felony
➣ Armed Robbery: Level 3 felony

An Example of the Difference

If a person enters a bank, holds up a gun, and demands cash from the teller, they are robbing the bank. If they were to have broken into the bank after hours and stole from the safe, it would be considered burglary.

If a person walks up to an old lady and uses a knife to steal her phone, he is robbing her. If the same person were to have taken the phone from the old lady’s pocket when she wasn’t looking, he would have committed pick-pocketing, which is not robbery.

How to Defend Your Theft Charges

Theft is a common crime here in the United States, but it comes in many different shapes and forms. Accordingly, it also comes with a wide scope of legal penalties, all of which depend on the severity of the crime itself, as well as other mitigating and aggravating factors. If you are suspected of theft crimes, your first and only priority should be to consult with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer who can build you a strong and impactful defense that will help you avoid the maximum penalties for your charges.

Indiana Theft Lawyer

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law at 317-636-7514 to get help with your Indiana theft charges, today. Whether charged with robbery or burglary, our law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies of defense for your case. Avoid the maximum penalties for your misdemeanor or felony criminal charges by calling David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, today!

Are Ponzi Schemes Illegal?

Posted on June 17, 2019 by admin

A Ponzi scheme is formally known as a “pyramid scheme” or “pyramid promotional scheme”, and it is a felony white collar crime here in Indiana. Continue reading to learn more about these crimes, including some common history facts, probable legal penalties, and what to do if you are charged with a similar fraud offense in Indiana.

White Collar Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Indiana Pyramid Schemes

A pyramid scheme is any type of operation that recruits participants who give over $100 for the opportunity to make more money by getting others to also become participants. In Indiana, the law defines pyramid scheme promotion or involvement as “persuading one or more individuals to join the scheme”, or “helping another person promote the scheme.”

Pyramid Scheme History

The meaning behind the colloquial term, “Ponzi” dates back in recent history to a man named Charles A. Ponzi, an Italian-born American swindler who was infamous for paying out returns using other investor’s money during the early 20th century. Although he was eventually caught and prosecuted, the immoral practice still occurs to this very day.

In fact, one of the most notorious pyramid scheme scams happened right here in Indiana back in 2012 when a financier named Tim Durham was convicted of conning nearly 200 million dollars from elderly investors. Another Hoosier by the name of John Marcum was charged by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for developing a $6 million Ponzi scheme in 2013.

Pyramid Scheme Laws and Penalties

According to Indiana Code 24-5-0.5: Deceptive Consumer Sales Act, “A person who founds, operates, or publicizes a pyramid scheme (a program where a participant gives over $100 for the opportunity to be compensated for getting others to join the program) commits a deceptive act under the Deceptive Consumer Sales Act.”

The state law allows a person to sue a Ponzi scammer in civil court if they suffered more than $500 in damages. The court, however, has full discretion to award 3 times the actual damages, or $1,000, as well as, lawyer fees, court costs, and even punitive damages for particularly egregious scams. Additionally, the law allows victims to join together and file a class action lawsuit against the pyramid scheme offender.

Pyramid Scheme Charges

If a person is charged with a pyramid scheme offense in Indiana, they face being convicted of one or more types of white collar crimes, including theft, money laundering, securities fraud, conspiracy, and more. It all depends on the details and scope of their offense. The common penalties that come along with such convictions include jail time, large fines, community service, probation, parole, house arrest, and restitution.

Indiana White Collar Crime Legal Defense

To best protect your rights and preserve your freedoms, you must have a seasoned and aggressive Indiana white collar criminal defense lawyer on your side, building you an impactful and strong case so that you can avoid the maximum penalties for your criminal charges. Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation and case evaluation with a licensed Indiana criminal defense lawyer you can trust.

Attorney David E. Lewis Offers Impactful Criminal Defense for Theft Crime Offenses in Indiana

Posted on April 4, 2018 by admin

Theft Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

There are several types of theft crimes a person can face in Indiana. Whether charged with petty shoplifting, or arrested for auto theft, theft crimes can come with lasting consequences and serious legal penalties. If you were arrested for a theft crime in Indiana, it is vital to your case to learn your rights and the penalties you face. You could be sentenced to prison, extreme fines, and more if you do not take action fast. The only way to protect yourself from receiving the maximum penalties for theft charges is to hire a tough and experienced criminal lawyer.

Attorney David E. Lewis has represented numerous theft crime cases, and can save you from unfair penalization for theft charges. He is the theft lawyer that is known for aggressive and powerful defense, using his thorough understanding of courtroom procedures and tactics from his hands-on experience to win the most favorable outcome possible for his clients. Look below at all of the different cases our law firm handles here in Indiana.

Our Theft Crimes Defense Practice Areas Include:

☑ AUTO THEFT
☑ CREDIT CARD THEFT
☑ BURGLARY
☑ FRAUD
☑ SHOPLIFTING
☑ ACCEPTING STOLEN GOODS
☑ MISDEMEANOR THEFT
☑ FELONY THEFT
☑ ROBBERY
☑ AND MORE

Auto Theft Charges

The act of stealing a vehicle is called auto theft. Although portrayed differently in the media, car theft is not the glamorous and exciting crime as seen on television, but rather a serious Indiana felony crime that comes with lasting consequences. If you have been charged with auto theft in Indiana, it is vital to your future and your freedom to retain competent legal services. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, has extensive trial and litigation experience in the criminal law field and knows how to position you in front of the courts in a way that’s most favorable to your case.

Robbery and Burglary Charges

Burglary, also referred to as “breaking and entering”, is a serious felony crime that often results in multiple criminal charges since more than one crime is usually committed. A person can be charged with the crime of burglary if they illegally enter any type of structure, not just homes. This includes businesses, schools, trailers, campers, houseboats, tents, campsites, and more. Robbery is the crime of taking another person’s money or property by either instilling fear in them, or using force, violence, or intimidation.

Depending on whether or not a weapon was used to commit the crime, robbery is generally charged as either Level 6 or Level 5 felony offenses. In Indiana, the penalties for robbery and burglary charges are at felony levels, and can affect several aspects of your life, both instantaneously and long-term. To avoid prison sentences and over-penalization, you need a theft attorney who knows burglary and robbery criminal law. David E. Lewis is the tough and driven criminal lawyer that will work around the clock to and protect your best interests and secure your freedom!

Shoplifting Charges

Taking merchandise from a commercial store or business without paying for it is a shoplifting crime. But for objects of high value, a person can potentially face grand larceny charges, an offense that comes with a much more serious conviction. Although not the most serious of misdemeanor and felony theft crimes, shoplifting is still penalized harshly in Indiana, and can subject a person to jail time and expensive fines. With competent legal counsel, however, those charged with shoplifting have a stronger chance at dropping or reducing their charges and avoiding strict penalties!

An Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney You Can Trust

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your theft criminal charges with a seasoned Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. You can avoid the maximum penalties for your charges with our aggressive legal representation! Call 317-636-7514 to get started, today.

Standard Indiana Penalties for Theft Convictions

Posted on December 19, 2016 by admin

Indiana Criminal Defense Attorney 317-636-7514

If a person knowingly and deliberately takes control of another property with the intent to keep it away from them permanently, that person is committing the crime of theft according to Indiana legislature. If they are caught committing this criminal act, they can be arrested, detained, and charged with theft. There are several types of theft charges because there are so many different types of theft: white color crimes, fraud, grand theft auto, shoplifting, and more.

Every type of theft charge comes with a strict set of penalties, but they all differ from case to case. The severity of penalties, including jail time, also differ depending on the type of theft and the total accumulated value of the stolen items. Continue reading for a brief look at the standard penalties for common theft charges and convictions in Indiana.

Indiana Theft Charges and Penalties

Theft is considered the act of intentionally and knowledgeably exerting control over one’s property without consent or authorization. “Exerting control” can mean a variety of actions, including taking, possessing, obtaining, controlling, leading away, carrying, driving, concealing, selling, abandon, encumbering, conveying, transferring, securing, reproducing, or extending a right to another’s property.

In minor to moderate cases, theft is a Class A Misdemeanor. This is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. However, certain enhancements can increase the level of punishment. In moderate to major cases of theft, the crime ranges from Level 5 to Level 6 Felonies. Look below for details of each.

IC 35-43-4-2

✪ Theft if a Level 6 Felony if:

➝ The value of stolen property is between $750 and $50,000.
➝ The stolen property is a firearm.
➝ The offender has a prior theft conviction of similar nature.
➝ And More

A Level 6 Felony punishable by 1 to 3 years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines.

✪ Theft if a Level 5 Felony if:

➝ The value of stolen property is $50,000 or more.
➝ The stolen property is a valuable metal.
➝ The stolen property came from a hospital, healthcare facility, public utility, telecommunications provider, or key facility.
➝ The stolen property relates to transportation safety.
➝ The stolen property relates to public safety.
➝ The stolen property’s absent creates a risk of public safety or bodily injury to another person.
➝ And More

A Level 5 Felony punishable by 2 to 8 years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines.

Arrested for Theft?

Theft charges, as well as the laws surrounding theft in Indiana, are complex and vary from case to case. For this reason, it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney for help navigating your case, protecting your rights, and preserving your freedoms. With a reputable defense lawyer in your corner, you have the best chance at avoiding the maximum penalties for your theft charges.

Indianapolis Theft Lawyer

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for aggressive criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm uses every resource in our power to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. Schedule a free initial consultation to begin strategizing a powerful and impactful defense for your theft charges. Avoid the maximum penalties for theft charges in Indiana with the help of David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law!