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Cincinnati Grand Theft Attorney
Grand theft is a felony in Ohio with harsh and often permanent consequences if convicted. Depending on the circumstances, you can be charged with a first-degree felony, which can lead to more than a decade in prison. Even if you avoid time behind bars, the implications of a grand theft conviction can be far-reaching and may affect every future job application that you fill out.
The best way to avoid incarceration, fines, and the collateral consequences of grand theft is to prevent a conviction altogether. Cincinnati felony theft lawyer Brad Groene with Luftman, Heck & Associates is here to help you aggressively fight any charge. With considerable experience assisting clients in similar cases of theft, embezzlement, robbery, and all manner of felonies in Ohio, attorney Groene knows how to deal with whatever situation is complicating your life effectively.
Don’t wait until it’s too late if you’re charged with grand theft. Call Luftman, Heck & Associates at (513) 338-1890 or contact us online to request a free initial consultation with attorney Brad Groene.
What is Grand Theft Under Ohio Law
Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 2913.02 outlines the state’s law against theft and the potential penalties. Essentially, no one, with the intent to deprive an owner of property or services, can knowingly obtain or exert control over property or services:
- Without consent;
- Beyond the scope of express or implied consent;
- By deception;
- By threat; or
- By intimidation.
Grand theft refers to the taking of:
- Certain types of property, no matter its value, or
- Property or services worth a certain amount.
Under ORC 2913.02(B)(4), if you are accused of stealing a firearm or any dangerous ordnance, then you face grand theft charges. This is typically a third-degree felony. However, if you took the firearm from a federally licensed dealer, it is a first-degree felony. Based on ORC 2913.02(B)(5), if you stole any motor vehicle, no matter the value, this is grant theft and charged as a fourth-degree felony.
You also face grand theft charges if you are accused of stealing services or property worth more than $7,500 and less than $150,000. Grand theft, in this case, is a fourth-degree felony.
Theft involving a higher amount may also be colloquially known as grand theft, but Ohio law specifically refers to the stealing property or services worth more than $150,000 as aggravated theft, and it is a third-degree felony. Property or services valued greater than $750,000 is a second-degree felony, while property and services valued at more than $1.5 million is a first-degree felony.
To learn more about felony grand theft charges, contact Luftman, Heck & Associates to speak with a Cincinnati felony theft attorney. We will thoroughly investigate the accusations against you to determine if there is a strong argument for asking for the charges to be dropped, dismissed, or reduced.
Ohio Felony Theft Classifications & Penalties
Here’s how Ohio classifies felony theft charges and the penalties you could face:
| Felony Degree | Examples | Possible Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| 5th Degree | Theft of $1,000–$7,499 | 6–12 months in prison, fines up to $2,500 |
| 4th Degree | Motor vehicle theft or $7,500–$149,999 | 6–18 months in prison, fines up to $5,000 |
| 3rd Degree | Firearm theft, or $150,000–$749,999 | 9–60 months in prison, fines up to $10,000 |
| 2nd Degree | $750,000–$1.5 million | 2–8 years in prison, fines up to $15,000 |
| 1st Degree | Theft over $1.5 million | 3–11 years in prison, fines up to $20,000 |
Can Grand Theft Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes—a strong defense can make a difference. Our team will investigate your case and challenge evidence such as:
- Whether there was intent to steal
- Actual ownership or consent issues
- Police procedural errors during arrest
- Improper valuation of property
We’ve successfully negotiated charge reductions to misdemeanors, and in some cases, obtained full dismissals when the evidence was weak or improperly handled.
Long-Term Consequences of a Grand Theft Conviction
Even beyond fines and jail, a felony theft conviction in Ohio can severely impact your future:
- Employment: Theft convictions often disqualify you from many jobs
- Housing: Landlords may deny rental applications
- Gun Rights: Felons cannot own or possess firearms
- Child Custody: A conviction can be used against you in custody disputes
- Immigration: Non-citizens may face deportation or visa denial
If you’re worried about these effects, ask us about expungement eligibility in Ohio.
Why Hire a Cincinnati Grand Theft Attorney?
Felony theft cases are complex and require strategic legal knowledge. Here’s how our legal team can help:
- Review evidence and police conduct
- Negotiate plea deals or dismissals
- Fight for acquittal at trial
- Protect your rights and future
With decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of the Hamilton County criminal courts, we offer an aggressive defense tailored to your unique case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grand Theft in Ohio
What counts as grand theft in Ohio?
Stealing property or services valued between $7,500 and $150,000, a firearm, or a motor vehicle qualifies as grand theft in Ohio.
Is grand theft a felony in Ohio?
Yes. All grand theft charges in Ohio are felony offenses, with degrees ranging from fourth-degree to first-degree depending on the property involved.
What happens if I’m convicted?
You could face prison time, thousands in fines, and a permanent criminal record, which can impact jobs, housing, and civil rights.
Can I avoid jail for grand theft?
Possibly. First-time offenders may be eligible for alternative sentencing, plea agreements, or court diversion programs depending on the facts of the case.
Will a conviction affect my gun rights?
Yes. A felony theft conviction results in the loss of firearm ownership rights under both state and federal law.
Facing Grand Theft Charges? Contact Luftman, Heck & Associates Today
If you have been arrested for or charged with a felony theft offense in Ohio, such as grand theft, the best thing you can do for yourself is to contact a Cincinnati grand theft attorney from Luftman, Heck & Associates. We understand how frightening felony charges are, mainly if you have little-to-no experience within the criminal justice system. Cincinnati attorney Brad Groene will guide you through the court process with compassion and develop a plan to see you through the matter as smoothly as possible. We know full well that all felonies require a thorough and aggressive defense. Therefore, from the beginning, we will build the strongest possible defense and fight hard for a favorable outcome, no matter the circumstances.
Do not hesitate to speak with us regarding how we can help. Call us at (513) 338-1890 or submit a request online to set up a free and confidential consultation.
