Identity Theft
Identity theft is both a state and federal crime in which an individual uses another person’s information for some type of fraudulent activity. Charges against an individual accused of identity theft in Ohio are based on the value of the goods or services that were acquired through the alleged illegal activities, and state law imposes higher penalties if the victims were elderly or disabled.
As technology continues to evolve, the consequences for identity theft have increased. Because identity theft charges can involve violations of state and federal law, these cases can be enormously complex and have profound implications on the life of the accused.
Dayton Identity Theft Lawyer
You will want to work with a criminal defense attorney who is extremely knowledgeable in regards to white collar crime if you have been charged with identity theft. The Joslyn Law Firm represents clients accused of fraud and other internet crimes in Dayton as well as surrounding communities like Fairborn, New Carlisle, Troy, and Beavercreek.
If you are facing identity theft charges in Montgomery County, it is in your best interest to contact the Joslyn Law Firm today at (937) 356-3969 or by sending us a message online. We offer a free, confidential consultation to review your case and discuss how our identity theft lawyers can develop a defense that will help you obtain the most favorable possible outcome.
Montgomery County Identity Theft Information Center
Ohio Identity Theft Laws
Under Ohio Revised Code §2913.49, identity theft (otherwise referred to as identity fraud) is when any individual illegally obtains goods, services, or anything else of value with another living or dead person’s personal identifying information that was acquired without the express or implied consent of that other person. The personal identify information includes, but is not limited to:
- Name
- Address
- Telephone Number
- Driver’s License
- Driver’s License Number
- Commercial Driver’s License
- Commercial Driver’s License Number
- State Identification Card
- State Identification Card Number
- Social Security Card
- Social Security Number
- Birth Certificate
- Place Of Employment
- Employee Identification Number
- Mother’s Maiden Name
- Financial Account Number
- Personal Identification Number
- Credit Card Number
Penalties for Dayton Identity Theft
Identity theft is a felony offense in Ohio, and the penalties and severity of the charges increase depending on the amount of financial loss the victim suffered and whether they are a disabled adult or elderly person:
- Fifth-degree felony — Victim suffered no financial loss. Can result in up to 12 months in prison and/or up to $2,500 in fines.
- Fourth-degree felony —Victim suffered financial loss of more than $1,000 but less than $7,500. Can result in up to 18 months in prison and/or up to $5,000 in fines.
- Third-degree felony — Victim suffered financial loss of more than $7,500 but less than $150,000. Or if the victim was disabled or elderly and suffered financial loss of more than $1,000 but less than $7,500. Can result in up to five years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines.
- Second-degree felony — Victim suffered financial loss of more than $150,000. Or if the victim was disabled or elderly and suffered financial loss of more than $7,500 but less than $150,000. Can result in up to eight years in prison and/or up to $15,000 in fines.
- First-degree felony — Victim was disabled or elderly and suffered financial loss of more $150,000. Can result in up to 11 years in prison and/or up to $20,000 in fines.
Ohio Identity Theft Defenses
Each identity theft case is unique, but some of the successful defenses in past incidents have included, but are not limited to:
- You had no criminal intent
- You acquired the information as a software or other computer services provider
- You were the victim of mistaken identity
- Necessary evidence not in discovery
Find the Best Identity Theft Lawyer in Dayton
If you are currently being investigated for identity theft, you should immediately contact the Joslyn Law Firm for the most proficient legal handling of your case. We handle identity theft cases for clients in Dayton as well as Springfield, Xenia, Piqua, Kettering, and Huber Heights.
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys know how to protect individuals accused of white collar crime, and you can learn how we might be able to help during a free initial consultation. Contact our firm right now at (937) 356-3969 or send us a message online.
