Legal Support for Identity Theft in Cadiz, OH

Expert Defense for Theft and Fraud Offenses

The team at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is dedicated to defending individuals accused of various theft and fraud offenses as described in Chapter 2913. Identity theft is a significant violation outlined in Ohio R.C. Section 2913.49. Often, defendants claim that the information used was for legitimate purposes. There are also other established defenses applicable to such serious legal matters.

If you’re facing identity theft charges in Cadiz or neighboring areas within Harrison County, Ohio, reach out to our legal specialists. Our adept Cadiz OVI lawyers are ready to help you confront these allegations head-on. Leverage our extensive experience—call (330) 992-3036 now for a free consultation.

Core Elements of Identity Theft Violations in Ohio

In Ohio, the criteria defining identity theft are specifically detailed in R.C. Section 2913.49. The offense is broken down into the following components:

• Lacking the explicit or implicit consent of the individual affected.
• Engaging in actions such as using, obtaining, or retaining the individual’s personal identifying details.
• Conducting such actions with the intent to impersonate the individual or present their personal information as one’s own.

Additionally, subsection 2913.49(B) explains:

• The individual conducted acts of creating, acquiring, possessing, or using the victim’s personal details.
• Intentions were to assist or support another party in misusing such information.
• The individual aimed to impersonate or aid a third party in impersonating the victim by using their details without authorized consent.

For crimes committed after September 30, 2011, jury guidelines are outlined in CR 513.49, last updated on January 21, 2012.

Understanding Definitions within Ohio’s Identity Theft Legislation

R.C. 2913.49(C) in Ohio’s statutes specifies that, for the purpose of this law, a “third person” denotes any other individual apart from the defendant or the victim involved. It also constitutes identity theft when someone, with the intent to deceive, permits another individual to use their personal identifying data.

Per R.C. 2913.49(D), while one might be permitted to use an individual’s identity specifics, the possession, acquisition, or employment of anyone else’s personal identifiers for fraudulent acts, whether to mirror the person or to use their particulars as one’s own, is forbidden.

In situations where consent—or the lack thereof—is contested in court, it’s often argued that the ability to consent is compromised if the person does not fully comprehend or lacks the capacity to make reasonable judgments about themselves or their assets.

Valuation Criteria in Cases of Identity Theft

The gravity of the charges and subsequent penalties may be assessed based on the financial value of credits, assets, or services obtained or sought by the defendant in connection to the alleged offense.

A change in the level of felony charges can occur if the victim belongs to specific categories like being an elderly person or disabled adult, depending on the value involved as referred to under R.C. 2913.49(I).

In some scenarios, the valuation might entail a cumulative consideration of the credit, property or services pursued or debts and other legal responsibilities avoided per R.C. 2913.49(H)(1). The penalties vary according to the value brackets which include:

• Under $1,000
• Between $1,000 and $7,500
• Between $7,500 and $150,000
• “$150,000 or more”

Seeking an Experienced Identity Theft Lawyer in Cadiz

Should you be dealing with identity theft accusations in Cadiz or its surrounding regions in Harrison County, Ohio, consult the seasoned experts in white-collar and financial crime defense at Youngstown Criminal Law Group.

Our portfolio of legal services includes defending clients against a variety of financial crimes such as unauthorized use of property, check fraud, credit card misuse, record tampering, deceptive document procurement, and other falsification charges. Take advantage of a free consultation —dial (330) 992-3036 today for assistance from a Cadiz criminal lawyer.