Theft & Property Crimes

Peoria Theft Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested for a theft-related offense, you may be confused about how one theft charge differs from the next. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I can provide much-needed information and guidance. Contact me at the Law Office of Arthur J. Inman.

I have over 35 years of criminal law experience handling all types of theft and property crimes:

  • Shoplifting: Shoplifting charges (also known as retail theft) vary, depending on the amount of property involved and whether it was a repeat offense. Penalties range from a misdemeanor (under $300 involved) to a Class 1 Felony (over $100,000 involved). Most shoplifting cases are misdemeanors.
  • Forgery: Many theft offenses involve some form of forgery. I defend clients charged with identity theft, check fraud, credit card fraud and other forgery crimes.
  • Burglary: Burglary involves breaking and entering into a home or building with the intent to commit a crime (usually theft).
  • Residential burglary: Residential burglary involves entering into a home with the intent to commit a felony or theft. Residential burglary can result in a sentence of 4-15 years incarceration. The sentence is not probation-eligible.
  • Home invasion: Convictions for home invasion - entry into a home with the intent to commit any crime, not just theft - can result in a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 6 years, with no eligibility for probation.
  • Robbery: Robbery involves seizing property though threats, intimidation or fear. The crime of robbery is enhanced to aggravated robbery when a deadly weapon (such as a gun or knife) is used to commit the crime (also known as armed robbery).
  • Other theft and property offenses: I also defend clients facing charges involving embezzlement (stealing from an employer), theft by deception, vandalism, arson and other crimes.

I represent both adults and juveniles in criminal cases arising from alleged theft or property crimes. I use my experience as a former prosecutor to prepare an effective defense for my clients based on the facts of the case. In certain instances, I am able to negotiate a reduction of the charges; for example, a home invasion or burglary charge may be reduced to criminal trespassing, which is a misdemeanor offense rather than a felony.

An Illinois Defense Lawyer on Your Side

If you are charged with burglary, robbery or other theft offense, you need a lawyer in your corner as soon as possible, to protect your interests and to minimize or avoid a conviction. Please contact me at the Law Office of Arthur J. Inman at 309-673-9711. I offer service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.