Dupage County Theft Crimes Attorney

Theft is a broad term that encompasses several slightly different criminal behaviors. Put simply, theft is the act of knowingly taking control over another’s property without permission, causing that person to lose the enjoyment or benefit of the property.

More specifically, as listed in 720 ILCS 5/16/1(a), a person commits theft when he or she knowingly obtains control over the property of another:

• Obtains or exerts unauthorized control over property of another;
• Obtains by deception control over property of another;
• Obtains by threat control over property of another;
• Obtains control over stolen property, and knows or should have known the property was stolen;
• Obtains or exerts control over property in the custody of law enforcement or anyone acting on behalf of law enforcement who explicitly represents that the property was stolen or who represents circumstances that would reasonably induce the belief that the property was stolen.

To unlawfully take the property of another person, it is also required that they:

• Intend to deprive that person of the use and benefit of such property, and
• Conceal, use, or abandon the property in such a way as to effectively cause that deprivation, either temporarily or permanently.[1]

Common forms of theft include:

• Delivery Container Theft:[2] Where a person knowingly takes a delivery package or container of which they are not a recipient.
• Retail Theft:[3] Commonly referred to as “shoplifting,” where a person knowingly takes merchandise from a store or retailer.
• Online Theft:[4] Illinois breaks this down into three categories, each of which involve a different aspect of online theft. They include:
  • Online Sale of Stolen Property
  • Online Theft By Deception
  • Electronic Fencing
• Identity Theft:[5] Where a person knowingly and purposefully uses the personal information of another as their own to fraudulently obtain goods, money, or services.
• Burglary:[6] Under Illinois law, burglary occurs when a person knowingly enters another person’s dwelling or vehicle with the intent to commit a felony or theft.

Theft crimes in Chicago are extensive, and the ones we have outlined above indicate the wide range of activities that can fall under its umbrella. Due to the expansive nature of theft crimes, it can be difficult to understand the charges against you if charges have been filed against you.

An experienced Chicago theft crime attorney can help to ensure your Constitutional rights remain intact and respected by the police as you fight the theft crime charges against you. At Kostopoulos Law Group, our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients fight theft crime charges for acts they may or may not have committed. Having the right attorney on your side could be the difference between jail time and probation. If you have been charged with a theft crime in Chicago contact us today to learn more about how we may be able to help you.