Anderson Lawyer Helping the Accused Fight Theft, Burglary, and Robbery Charges

Theft, robbery, and burglary are three of the most commonly committed crimes in Anderson. These criminal offenses may be common in this state, but that doesn’t mean they are taken lightly. Authorities in Indiana aggressively prosecute defendants who are accused of theft, burglary, or robbery. You shouldn’t face these charges alone—let an experienced theft attorney at Beeman Heifner Benge P.A. help you fight back.

What is the Difference Between Theft, Burglary, and Robbery in Anderson?

The terms theft, robbery, and burglary are often used interchangeably, but they are three separate crimes. Theft occurs when you knowingly or intentionally take control of someone else’s property without their consent. You don’t have to permanently take someone’s property in order for it to be considered theft. You can still face theft charges even if you give the property back to its rightful owner.

Robbery is similar to theft since it involves taking control of someone else’s property without their consent. However, the crime is considered robbery if you use force, threaten to use force, or put another person in fear when stealing the property.

Burglary is the crime of breaking and entering into someone else’s property with the intent to commit a felony or theft once inside. For example, if you break into someone’s house to steal from them, this is considered burglary.

These crimes are similar in nature, but they are seen as three distinct criminal offenses in the eyes of the law.

What Are the Penalties For A Theft, Robbery, or Burglary Conviction in Anderson?

Anyone who is convicted of theft, robbery, or burglary can face serious penalties. Many theft crimes are misdemeanors, which carry several possible penalties, including up to one year in jail and $5,000 in fines. But theft is charged as a felony if the value of the stolen property is over $750. It is also charged as a felony if the stolen property is a gun or valuable metal. Felony crimes carry more severe penalties, so a conviction for felony theft could lead to up to six years in prison in addition to $10,000 in fines.

Robbery is classified as a Level 5, Level 3, or Level 2 felony depending on the nature of the crime. A Level 5 felony robbery charge can lead to up to $10,000 in fines as well as up to six years in prison. If you are convicted of Level 2 felony robbery, which is the most serious robbery offense, you could face up to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

Burglary is classified as a Level 5, Level 4, Level 3, Level 2, or Level 1 felony depending on the nature of the crime. Level 1 felony burglary carries the most serious penalties, including up to 40 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. Even the least serious burglary charge, which is Level 5 felony burglary, can lead to up to six years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.

How to Beat A Theft, Burglary, or Robbery Charge in Indiana

Fortunately, an arrest for theft, burglary, or robbery does not always lead to a conviction. It is possible to fight these criminal charges with the help of an experienced attorney from Beeman Heifner Benge P.A.

There are a number of defense strategies to use in these cases, including lack of intent and mistaken identity. Your attorney can review the details of your case to determine the best way to fight the charges.

Even if the prosecutor has a solid case against you, your criminal defense attorney might be able to get your charges reduced to a lesser crime. For example, if you are charged with felony theft, your attorney might be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce your charges to misdemeanor theft. This strategy can help you avoid many of the most serious legal penalties imposed on offenders.

Let the theft attorneys at Beeman Heifner Benge P.A. review your case today so you can learn more about your legal options.

Schedule Your Consultation With Our Theft Attorneys in Anderson

Have you been charged with theft, robbery, or burglary in Anderson? If so, seek legal representation from the skilled criminal defense attorneys at Beeman Heifner Benge P.A. at once. We understand how a conviction can completely disrupt your life, which is why we will work tirelessly to help you reach the best possible outcome in your case. Schedule a consultation regarding your case by calling our law firm at (765) 684-4355 or filling out the form on this website.