Major Types of Illinois Property Crimes

 Posted on November 23, 2015 in Criminal Law

Under Illinois law there are several different types of property crimes. Sometimes the names of the crimes can be confusing; they all seem to have the same meaning. Three common examples are theft, burglary and robbery. While in conversations these three terms might all be used to describe the same thing, under the law they are very different crimes.

What is Theft Under the Law? 

Theft in Illinois is defined as taking or depriving another of the use of property without a legal right to the property. Theft covers many different types of actions—shoplifting, taking money from someone’s wallet, or stealing a car or bicycle are all theft crimes. The more valuable the property is that was stolen, the harsher the consequences. 

Theft crimes can be misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the value of what was stolen.

What is Burglary Under the Law?

Illinois defines burglary as entering premises without permission with the intent to commit theft or a felony. If someone breaks into someone else's house with the intent to take his or her belongings, it is burglary. However, the premises does not have to be a house. It can be a boat, a store, or even a school. 

Burglary is a Class 2 felony, unless there are aggravating factors, and then it is a Class 1 felony.

What is Robbery Under the Law? 

Robbery can be thought of as theft with the addition of the use or threat of force. If someone walks into a convenience store with a gun, threatens the clerk, and takes the money from the register, the crime of robbery has been committed. 

Robbery is generally a Class 2 felony. However, like burglary, some aggravating circumstances may make robbery a Class 1 felony.

It is possible for one set of actions to be charged as both burglary and robbery. If someone breaks into another person’s home, planning on taking any valuable electronics, they have committed burglary. If the homeowner confronts the criminal and the criminal threatens the homeowner with a weapon, the crime of robbery has also been committed.

Speak to an Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are accused of theft, burglary, or robbery, please consult with a Wheaton criminal defense lawyer immediately. Call Davi Law Group, LLC today to schedule a consultation at 630-580-6373.

Source: 

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ChapterID=53&ActID=1876