July 24, 2025 | Criminal Defense
Being charged with theft in Ohio is never something to take lightly. Whether a defendant is facing a misdemeanor or a felony, the consequences can follow them for years. Knowing your rights and the range of possible penalties is the first step to protecting yourself and making informed decisions during this difficult time.
Continue reading to learn more about Ohio’s theft laws and penalties.
What Qualifies as Theft in Ohio?
In Ohio, theft occurs when someone intentionally takes or gains control over another person’s property without permission. This can happen in several ways, including simply taking something outright, tricking or deceiving the owner, or using threats or intimidation. The law also requires that the person permanently keep the property or prevent the owner from getting it back.
Theft isn’t limited to physical things like money or belongings – it also includes stealing services, unlawfully using someone’s credit, or taking government or employment benefits. If the goal is to deny the rightful owner of their property or advantage, it qualifies as theft under Ohio law.
Types of Theft Under Ohio Law
Ohio law recognizes several different types of theft offenses, depending on the value of what was taken and the circumstances of the crime.
Theft offenses include the following:
Petty Theft
This charge usually applies when the stolen property or services are valued at less than $1,000. Petty theft is often prosecuted as a misdemeanor and might include shoplifting or stealing small items.
Theft
The charge becomes simple theft when the value of what’s taken exceeds $1,000 but is less than $7,500. This offense is treated more seriously and is typically classified as a felony under Ohio law.
Grand Theft
Grand theft is charged when the value of the stolen property is more than $7,500 or when the item is a firearm or motor vehicle, regardless of value. This can lead to even harsher penalties and longer prison sentences.
Aggravated Theft
If the property’s value exceeds $150,000, it becomes aggravated theft, and penalties increase. These cases often involve businesses, nonprofits, or high-value personal property and carry serious felony penalties.
Receiving Stolen Property
This crime is charged when someone is accused of knowingly receiving, keeping, or reselling stolen goods. The severity of the charge depends on the value and type of property involved.
Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle or Credit Card
Taking someone’s vehicle without permission (sometimes called joyriding) or using another person’s credit card without authorization are treated as separate theft offenses with penalties based on the item’s value.
Understanding the specific charge you face is important, since each type of theft under Ohio law has its own elements and penalties.
Potential Penalties for a Theft Conviction in Ohio
A theft conviction in Ohio comes with severe criminal penalties that vary depending on the property’s value and the case’s specific details.
Here’s a breakdown of what you might face if convicted:
Petty Theft (First-Degree Misdemeanor)
If the value of the stolen goods is under $1,000, this charge can land you in jail for up to 180 days and hit you with a fine as high as $1,000.
Fifth-Degree Felony Theft
For items valued between $1,000 and $7,500 or if the property is a credit card, check, vehicle license plate, or title, you’re facing a fifth-degree felony and penalties of 6 to 12 months in prison and up to a $2,500 fine.
Fourth-Degree Felony Theft (Grand Theft)
If the stolen items are worth $7,500 to $150,000, or the case involves a motor vehicle or dangerous drugs, you could face 6 to 18 months behind bars and a fine up to $5,000.
Third-Degree Felony Theft (Aggravated Theft)
When the value climbs to $150,000–$750,000 or firearms or anhydrous ammonia are involved, sentencing jumps to 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Second-Degree Felony Theft (Aggravated Theft)
Stealing property worth $750,000 to $1,500,000 can result in a 2 to 8 year prison term and up to a $15,000 fine.
First-Degree Felony Theft (Aggravated Theft)
If the stolen property is valued above $1,500,000, you could face 3 to 11 years in prison and as much as a $20,000 fine.
Receiving Stolen Property
Ohio treats receiving stolen goods seriously. This offense can be charged as a misdemeanor (with penalties up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine) or a felony with sentences that increase depending on the item’s value and whether it was stolen from a vulnerable person.
Contact the Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
Every theft case is different, but the potential consequences are always life-changing. If you’re facing theft charges in Ohio it’s important to talk with a lawyer who can protect your future and fight for your rights. Contact the Cincinnati theft crimes lawyers at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati Law Office.
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