Types of Theft Crimes

It is essential to differentiate between the various types of theft crimes in Indiana, as each has its own potential penalties and consequences. It’s also possible that your criminal defense attorney may be able to reduce your theft charge to a lesser charge to decrease any consequences you might face. Types of theft crimes in Indiana are as follows.

Misdemeanor Theft or Petty Theft

As per Indiana Code 35-43-4-2-(a), misdemeanor theft is defined as having unauthorized control over the property of another person with the intent to keep the rightful owner from using or benefiting from the property. For a misdemeanor charge, the property’s total value must be less than $750.00.

Felony Theft or Grand Theft

Felony theft uses the same definition under Indiana statute as misdemeanor theft, but felony theft involves one or more of the following:

• The stolen property is above $750.00 but below $50,000
• The property is a firearm
• The person has a prior conviction for theft or criminal conversion

There is another level of felony theft that involves:

• Property value of at least $50,000
• Property that is the subject of the theft is a valuable metal and relates to transportation or public safety or is taken from a hospital or other health care facility, telecommunications provider, public utility, or key facility. The lack of property must cause a substantial risk of bodily injury to a person.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting occurs when someone knowingly conceals or takes property or changes UPC codes or packaging with the intent to pay less for the property or deprive the store of the value of the property. There is not a separate shoplifting statute – rather, it falls under felony or misdemeanor theft charges. 

Conversion

By statute, the definition of conversion is the same as theft, though it does not involve intent. Intent to deprive the victim of his property is a required element of theft charges, but not for the crime of conversion. This charge is typically a misdemeanor, but depending on the value of the property and the circumstances, it can be a type of felony.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement is the theft or misappropriation of assets or monies placed in one’s trust or belonging to their employer. Using a company credit card for personal charges or keeping cash payments is a form of embezzlement. While most states have a separate embezzlement statute, Indiana does not. Embezzlement crimes fall into the theft statutes in this state. 

Auto Theft and Receiving Stolen Auto Parts

Auto theft is a felony in Indiana and is covered in a separate section in the theft statute. It includes an entire vehicle or parts of that vehicle. Both the giver/seller and the receiver of stolen cars or auto parts will be charged with felonies. 

Legal Defense with All Types of Theft Crimes

No matter what types of theft crimes you have been charged with, you need a Northwest Indiana criminal defense attorney who personalizes their representation to you and your case. Legal representation is not one-size-fits-all. Our attorneys take an individualized approach to each of our clients and their types of theft crimes. Get the representation you can count on by scheduling your consultation as soon as possible. 

Contact Arshad, Pangere & Warring today to schedule your consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.