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Understanding the Crime of Theft in Illinois​

The state of Illinois takes theft seriously. Being convicted of theft can lead to jail/prison time. And, even if a conviction doesn’t lead to any time behind bars, it can create other consequences.​

By going over the jail/prison time a theft conviction can lead to, and speaking with a Chicago criminal defense lawyer, you can obtain the legal outcome you need.​

What Is Considered Theft In Illinois?​

Theft in Illinois is defined as the unlawful taking/using of another person’s property without their consent. Or, alternatively, with the intention of permanently depriving the owner of that property.​

Just as an example, if someone breaks into your garage and drives off with your car, this would probably be considered theft.​

Some of the different acts often considered theft in Illinois are as follows:​

  • Credit card theft.
  • Shoplifting.
  • Embezzlement.
  • Identity theft.
  • Financial exploitation.

Some of the different types of theft in Illinois are as follows:

  • ​Using deception to acquire another person’s property.
  • Using threats to acquire another person’s property.
  • Obtaining/exerting unauthorized control over another person’s property.

Theft can lead to jail/prison time, as well as:

  • ​Heavy fines.
  • Hefty restitution costs
  • Strict probation

If you have been accused of theft, you may want to work with an attorney. Your attorney can address the facts of your case and, in doing so, contest these facts so that you can obtain the best possible legal outcome.​

In the event that you do not work with an attorney, a conviction becomes far more likely. A conviction can lead to jail/prison time, along with plenty of other consequences.​

When Does Theft Lead To Jail/Prison Time?​

Theft leads to jail/prison time in the state of Illinois, under the following circumstances:​

  • If a person is convicted of stealing up to $500 worth of property, they may be sentenced to no more than one year in jail.
  • If a person is convicted of stealing anywhere $500 to $10,000 worth of property, they may be sentenced to anywhere from two to five years in prison.
  • If a person is convicted of stealing anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 worth of property, they may be sentenced to anywhere from three to seven years in prison.
  • If a person is convicted of stealing anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000 worth of property, they may be sentenced to anywhere from four to fifteen years in prison.
  • If a person is convicted of stealing property worth more than $500,000, they may be sentenced to anywhere from six to thirty years in prison.

Every single one of the above can lead to a jail/prison sentence. On top of that, these factors can make a jail/prison sentence far more likely:

  • If the accused allegedly stole property from a disabled and/or elderly person.
  • If the accused has prior convictions on their record.
  • If the accused allegedly stole property from a house of worship, government office, or school.

If just one of the factors above is present, the penalties for theft can become much harsher.​

Get Qualified Legal Help Today​

If you need representation for a criminal charge, Glasgow & Olsson is uniquely qualified to help you.​

Our team has helped thousands of people who have been charged with crimes in Illinois. When we take cases, we do so to win. This means we take cases to trial. We don’t arrange plea bargains unless it is in the best interest of our clients. As proactive lawyers, we fight aggressively and support our clients throughout their entire case up to and including appeals. Protecting your life and freedom is always the goal, and with our decades of experience practicing law, we know how to get results. This is why we are regularly invited to appear as a legal contributor on popular radio and news outlets, including ABC, CNN, NBC, CBS, and Fox NEWS.

When you need an attorney, experience matters. Speak with a Chicago criminal defense attorney today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.