Can I Face Criminal Charges for Receiving Stolen Property?

Being accused of a crime can come as a shock, especially when you didn’t commit the act itself. Yet, in some cases, simply being connected to the situation is enough to warrant a charge. If you are found in possession of stolen property in Indiana, then yes, you can face serious criminal charges even if you didn’t steal the items yourself. Receiving stolen property is a distinct offense under Indiana law, and the penalties can be severe depending on the value of the property involved.

The charges related to receiving stolen property in Indiana include:

• Class A Misdemeanor for property valued under $750
• Level 6 Felony for property valued $750-$50,000
• Level 5 Felony for property over $50,000, firearms or valuable metals

Legal representation from a reputable firm like The Bellinger Law Office can prove to be crucial for protecting your rights and future in these circumstances.

What Constitutes Theft in Indiana?

Under Indiana Code 35-43-4-2, theft is defined as “knowingly or intentionally exert[ing] unauthorized control over property of another person, with intent to deprive the other person of any part of its value or use.”

Indiana Code 35-43-4-1 further defines “exert control over property” broadly to include:

• Obtaining or possessing property
• Concealing or selling property
• Transferring or securing rights to property

This means that simply having stolen property in your possession can result in criminal charges. The law is clear: you don’t have to be the original thief to face theft charges.

Penalties for Possession of Stolen Property

The consequences you face for receiving stolen property depend primarily on the value (and in some cases, contents) of what was stolen:

Property Valued Under $750

• Up to 1 year in prison
• Fines up to $5,000
• Class A Misdemeanor on criminal record

Property Valued $750-$50,000

• 6 months to 2.5 years in prison
• Fines up to $10,000
• Level 6 Felony on criminal record

Property Over $50,000, Firearms or Valuable Metals

• 1-6 years in prison
• Fines up to $10,000
• Level 5 Felony on criminal record

Additional factors that can increase the charges or penalties include:

• Previous theft convictions
• If stolen motor vehicles or parts are involved
• If the property was taken from hospitals, utilities or critical infrastructure

The Value of Legal Counsel

When facing charges for receiving stolen property, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential. At The Bellinger Law Office, we understand the intricacies of Indiana laws and can help you protect your rights.

A skilled attorney can:

• Challenge evidence obtained through illegal searches
• Question the prosecution’s proof of knowledge
• Negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing

Don’t let one mistake define your future. These charges can impact your employment, housing and reputation for years to come, so taking action against them is imperative.

Protect Your Rights and Your Future

Facing criminal charges for receiving stolen property is serious, but you don’t have to go through it all on your own. A skilled criminal law attorney with experience in theft cases can help you through the process.

If you’ve been charged with the reception of stolen property in Indiana, contact The Bellinger Law Office immediately. We can go over your case, explain your legal options and help you find a way forward.