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According to crime statistics provided by the Chicago Police Department, a total of 15,472 theft crimes occurred in Chicago in 2009. These offenses can be split into one of two categories: misdemeanors (petty theft) or felonies (grand theft). When a person steals retail property with a value of less than $300 and does not steal it directly of the person of another, it is a Class A misdemeanor offense. Stealing retail property with a value of $300 or more or forcibly removing it off the person of another is a felony and, therefore, grand theft.
Illinois statute 720 ILCS 5/16-25 states that retail theft with a total value of more than $300 is a Class 3 felony, though it can escalate to a Class 2 felony if the theft is committed using the emergency exit of the retail establishment. The total value of the property can be achieved in one transaction or it can involve the accumulation of value over multiple transactions committed in the course of one year. Class 2 felonies are punishable by three to seven years in prison, and Class 3 felonies are punishable by two to five years. All felonies are also penalized with a possible fine of up to $25,000.
Identity theft is also a form of grand theft, as outlined in 720 ILCS 5/16-30. Depending on the victim of the theft and the amount was stolen the crime can range from a Class 4 felony to a Class 1 felony. Class 1 felonies are very serious and are punishable by 4 – 15 years in jail or prison and a maximum fine of $25,000.
Hire a Chicago criminal defense attorney from Okabe & Haushalter today for the defense of a skilled and aggressive attorney. Our firm is experienced in all kinds of theft crime cases and will have the knowledge and determination to fight your charges of grand theft. Contact our firm at your earliest convenience to discuss your case with a defense lawyer near you.
