What to Know About Property Crimes in Illinois

 Posted on January 26, 2023 in Criminal Defense

There is a common misconception that if a crime is not violent or does not result in serious injury, it means that it is not a serious crime. However, this is not true. Non-violent crimes, such as most types of property crimes, are still serious offenses that can have a devastating impact on someone’s life, which is why you must take the situation seriously if you are charged with such a crime. 

Today, we will look at different types of property crimes in Illinois and what the associated penalties are. Suppose you have been arrested for a property crime. In that case, it is crucial that you consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who has worked with clients accused of committing property crimes. Your lawyer will work to ensure that you avoid a conviction and thus can resume your life as quickly as possible. 

What Are Some Different Types of Property Crimes in Illinois? 

Property crimes are unique because there is a multitude of crimes that fall under this umbrella. Commonly prosecuted property crimes in Illinois include the following:  

• Retail theft – This occurs when someone takes property from a store without first paying. In cases of retail theft, there must be an intent on the part of the perpetrator to permanently deny the merchant of using or benefiting from the property that was stolen. 
• Robbery – This occurs when someone takes property, excluding a motor vehicle, from an individual either by force or by the threat of force. 
• Burglary – This occurs when someone enters a residence intending to commit theft or a felony. A residence may include a house, an apartment, a trailer, a watercraft, an aircraft, a railroad car, and more. 

Are Property Crimes Prosecuted as a Misdemeanor or Felony? 

The level of the severity of property crime charges depends on various factors, including the following:

• The characteristics of the criminal act.
• The value of whatever property was stolen or ruined during criminal activity.
• Whether violence or threatening to use violence was used when the crime was committed.
• Whether any injuries took place during the time the crime was committed. 
• Whether the person charged for the property crime has a prior criminal history.

Furthermore, if convicted, the perpetrator may be punished by prison time, significant fines, a criminal record, or all the above. There is a social stigma whenever someone is convicted of a crime, which is why it is essential for those charged with a property crime to immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who has worked with defendants accused of property crimes. 

Contact a Chicago, IL Property Crimes Attorney

Do not let a criminal conviction overturn your life. Consider contacting the knowledgeable Chicago, IL property crimes lawyers at Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney. Call 312-629-0669 for a free consultation.

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=072000050HArt%2E+21%2C+Subdiv%2E+1&ActID=1876&ChapterID=53&SeqStart=65000000&SeqEnd=65800000