March 19, 2025 | Criminal Defense
Theft, robbery, and burglary are all distinct criminal charges. However, the three charges all share similarities. While many people use these terms interchangeably, there are distinct legal definitions under Ohio law.
If you are charged with any of these crimes, you must understand the elements of your charge and what the prosecutors must prove to secure a conviction.
What Is Theft in Ohio?
Under Ohio law, theft happens when someone exerts control over another’s property or service with the intent to deprive the owner of the property.
A person can commit theft by exerting control over property:
- Without consent of the owner
- Beyond the scope of consent
- Through threat
- Through deception
- Through intimidation
Theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the value of the property is over $1,000, it is a fifth-degree felony. If the value is over $7,500, it is a fourth-degree felony. If the property is over $150,000, it is considered as aggravated theft. Aggravated theft is a third-degree felony. If the value of the property is over $750,000, it is a second-degree felony, and over $1,500,000, it is a first-degree felony.
What Is Robbery in Ohio?
A Robbery is a type of theft offense. A theft is considered a robbery if the perpetrator did any of the following:
- Had a deadly weapon on or about their person
- Inflicted or threatened to inflict physical harm
- Used or threatened immediate force
Committing a robbery with a deadly weapon or by inflicting physical harm is a second-degree felony. Committing a robbery with immediate force is a third-degree felony.
What Is Burglary in Ohio?
A burglary is a property crime that may also include a theft, but it doesn’t have to. A person has committed burglary if by force, stealth or deception they:
- Trespass into an occupied structure with the intent to commit a crime when someone is present
- Trespass into someone’s home with the purpose to commit a crime
- Trespass into an occupied structure with the intent to commit a crime when someone is not home
- Trespass into any permanent or temporary habitation when the occupier is likely to be present
Essentially, someone commits burglary when they break into a property with the intent to commit a crime. The property could include someone’s house, office, trailer, truck, car, or other type of structure.
What Are The Penalties For Theft, Robbery, And Burglary In Ohio?
The penalties for theft, robbery, and burglary vary dramatically.
For theft, the penalty can range from no jail time up to 11 years in prison. It could also carry a fine up to $20,000 in addition to restitution. The exact penalty depends on the value of the property in the case and whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Robbery is a very serious charge. The punishment for robbery could include prison time from 5 to 20 years. It also includes a fine up to $10,000 or double the amount stolen.
Burglary can be either a misdemeanor or felony charge. It carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
Additionally, if you are convicted of a felony charge, there are collateral consequences. This could include difficulty finding a job or housing. Convicted felons also often experience a loss of certain rights, like the right to vote or own a firearm.
If you are charged with theft, robbery, or burglary, you should talk to a criminal defense attorney.
Contact the Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
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.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Cincinnati
600 Vine Street, Suite 1004
Cincinnati, OH 45202
United States
