As one of the oldest forms of theft, pickpocketing is not a crime that the state of Illinois laughs off. Instead, pickpocketing is treated as a serious criminal offense. Stealing from another person is not a minor crime, and a conviction can lead to felony charges, time behind bars, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Given the gravity of the consequences that can come with a conviction for pickpocketing, it is in your best interest to have a seasoned attorney helping you defend yourself. At Glasgow & Olsson, our Chicago theft defense attorneys have decades of criminal defense experience. Our deep knowledge of federal and state law, paired with our relentless preparation and courtroom tenacity, makes our legal counsel unparalleled in the greater Chicago area.
What is Pickpocketing?
Pickpocketing happens when someone steals property directly from another person’s body, clothing, or immediate possession. This crime typically does not involve any type of violence or threat, which is why it is common for people to think that it is a minor offense, which is the furthest thing from the truth.
Common examples of pickpocketing include:
- Taking someone’s wallet out of their back pocket.
- Taking a phone from another person’s bookbag.
- Taking cash from another person’s purse.
- Taking personal belongings from another person without them noticing.
Criminal Consequences of a Pickpocketing Conviction
Under Illinois theft law, pickpocketing is generally prosecuted as “theft from the person.” The law prohibits knowingly taking control of another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property.
Stolen property through pickpocketing that is valued at $500 or less will come with a Class 3 felony charge. This may carry:
- Two to five years in prison
- Up to 30 months of probation
- Expensive fines of up to $25,000
- Restitution to the victim
- A permanent felony record
When the stolen property exceeds $500, the penalties can become even more severe. Also, anyone who is a repeat offender can expect enhanced sentencing if they are convicted.
In addition to criminal consequences for a pickpocketing conviction in Illinois, long-term personal ramifications can follow. For example, you may lose:
- Your professional license
- Your employment opportunities may be reduced.
- You may not be able to secure housing.
- Your immigration status could be affected.
- Your rights to firearms may be impacted.
- You may have a more difficult time being accepted into college.
Get Qualified Legal Help Today
Pickpocketing is not harmless, nor is it considered a prank or minor infraction in Illinois. There are considerable negative consequences for pickpocketing, which is why if you have been charged with this crime, you need an attorney.
At Glasgow & Olsson, we are widely recognized as a leading authority in Illinois criminal law. For this reason, Attorney Thomas T. Glasgow is a trusted legal voice who is regularly invited to appear on major networks, including ABC, CNN, NBC, CBS, and Fox News.
When your freedom is at stake, reputation and experience matter.
Speak with our Chicago criminal defense attorneys today and learn how decades of trusted experience can protect what matters most to you.