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Theft is the act of taking another person’s property. In Nebraska, theft is consolidated into one offense, which means that several different behaviors fall under the same statute. However, regardless of the specific actions being alleged, the consequences for a conviction can be severe.
This makes it crucial to work with an Omaha theft lawyer who can fight for your freedom, rights, and reputation. The determined defense attorneys at Berry Law have the experience necessary to help you work towards an optimal outcome in your case.
Understanding the Theft Statute
Many actions can result in criminal charges for theft. For example, taking control of immovable property, such as land, is considered theft. This is often allegedly done by tricking the owner into signing ownership over to a different person. Other actions that can be regarded as theft under Nebraska law include:
- Shoplifting
- Theft by deception
- Claiming ownership of lost property
- Taking of property or services
- Automobile theft
- Extortion
Depending on the facts surrounding the alleged offense, the charges will fall into different levels. Most crimes are classified based on the monetary value of the item(s) taken.
For example, an offense involving $500 or less will be considered a Class II Misdemeanor, this is the lowest level of a theft charge. The next level is a Class I Misdemeanor, which occurs when the value is between $500 and $1,500 or if the person has a prior Class II Misdemeanor conviction.
A Class IV Felony theft applies when the value of the property involved is more than $1,500 but less than $5,000. Finally, the highest level of a theft offense is a Class IIA Felony, which occurs when the value of the item involved is over $5,000.
It is important to note that other factors such as prior convictions can influence the specific level of the theft offense charged. An Omaha theft attorney can help a person understand the charges he or she is facing.
Potential Penalties for Omaha Offenses
Statute 28-518 describes the penalties associated with various types of theft. The following list details the possible penalties based on the specific level of offense:
- Class II Misdemeanor – Up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
- Class I Misdemeanor – Up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
- Class IV Felony – Up to two years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000
- Class IIA Felony – Up to 20 years in prison
The government may punish subsequent offenses more strongly than a first offense. Further, in addition to jail sentences, a person may also have to pay fines depending on the level of offense. An Omaha theft attorney can further explain the penalties that may apply in a specific case.
Talk to an Omaha Theft Attorney Today
Before you respond to any legal proceedings or speak with the police, consider calling an Omaha theft lawyer. A proactive attorney can be a guide throughout the process and help you make the decisions that can give you the best chance at a positive outcome.
The moment you are arrested for a theft charge, call Berry Law. Your future and rights are at stake, so it is critical that you get started on building your defense immediately. No matter how minor you think your charges are, you may still be facing penalties that can affect you for the rest of your life. Explore your defense options today with a member of our firm.
The sooner you act, the better the outcome of your case may be. To get started, call the highly qualified attorneys at Berry Law today.
