Omaha Theft Crime Lawyers

Examples of theft crimes include:

• Petty theft: Stealing property valued under $500, such as shoplifting small items.
• Grand theft: Taking property worth more than $1,500, like stealing expensive equipment or luxury items.
• Burglary: Unlawfully entering a building intending to commit theft or another felony.
• Robbery: Using force or intimidation to take property directly from another person or a financial institution.
• Identity theft: Using someone else's personal information to commit fraud or theft.
• Embezzlement: Stealing funds or property entrusted to your care, commonly occurring in employer-employee scenarios.
• Auto theft: Stealing or attempting to steal a vehicle.
• Receiving stolen property: Knowingly accepting or purchasing items that were stolen.
• Fraud: Deceptive practices aimed at securing unlawful property, funds, or benefits, such as writing bad checks, credit card fraud, tax fraud, healthcare fraud, or insurance fraud. 

How Theft Crimes Are Charged

Theft crimes in Nebraska can be categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies based on the value of the stolen property and other aggravating factors. Misdemeanor theft generally involves property valued at less than $1,500. Felony theft is charged when the property is valued at $1,500 or more or for burglary or robbery. 

Aggravating factors in theft crimes are specific elements or circumstances that can elevate the severity of the crime, potentially resulting in harsher penalties. These factors can affect how the crime is charged, prosecuted, and sentenced. 

Examples of aggravating factors can include: 

• Use of a weapon: Employing a weapon during the commission of theft can transform a simple theft into armed robbery, carrying significantly stiffer penalties.
• Physical harm or threat: Inflicting harm or threatening the victim during a theft can increase charges and penalties.
• Recidivism: Repeat offenders, or individuals with prior theft convictions, may face heightened charges and stricter sentencing.
• Vulnerable victim: Targeting vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, children, or disabled persons, can result in aggravated charges.
• Organized crime connection: Involvement in theft as part of organized criminal activity or a syndicate can lead to more severe consequences.