
The amount of money that constitutes a felony in Ohio depends on the type of felony in question. For example, theft constitutes a first-degree misdemeanor if the stolen property or services are valued at less than $1,000. However, theft becomes a felony when the value of the stolen property or services is at least $1,000, which is considered a fifth-degree felony. The classification of theft as a felony in Ohio depends primarily on the value of the stolen property or services, with threshold amounts that elevate the crime from a misdemeanor to a felony. For instance, a fifth-degree felony theft involves stolen property or services valued between $1,000 and $7,500, while a fourth-degree felony theft involves values ranging from $7,500 to $150,000. A third-degree felony theft involves values exceeding $150,000.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Theft classified as a felony | $1,000 and above |
| Fifth-degree felony theft | $1,000 to $7,500 |
| Fourth-degree felony theft | $7,500 to $150,000 |
| Third-degree felony theft | $150,000 and above |
| First-degree felony theft | $1.5 million and above |
| First-degree felony punishment | 3 to 11 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000 |
| Second-degree felony punishment | 2 to 8 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 |
| Third-degree felony punishment | 9 months to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 |
| Fourth-degree felony punishment | 6 to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 |
| Fifth-degree felony punishment | 6 to 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $2,500 |
| Examples of fifth-degree felony theft | Stealing a credit card or a vehicle |
| Examples of fourth-degree felony theft | Vehicle theft, promoting prostitution, disrupting public services |
| Examples of third-degree felony theft | High-scale embezzlement, theft of luxury vehicles, expensive art or jewellery, major fraud cases |
| Examples of first-degree felony | Murder, rape, kidnapping, aggravated murder, involuntary manslaughter |
| Examples of second-degree felony | Criminal gang participation, felonious assault |
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What You'll Learn

Fifth-degree felony theft: $1,000 to $7,500
In Ohio, theft is defined as the act of knowingly obtaining or exerting control over someone else's property or services without their consent, with the intention of depriving them of it. The classification of theft as a felony depends primarily on the value of the stolen property or services.
Fifth-degree felony theft in Ohio is defined as the theft of property or services valued between $1,000 and $7,500. This level often includes the theft of electronics like laptops or smartphones, shoplifting designer items, or taking items like bicycles or small-scale construction equipment. It can also include stealing a credit card or a vehicle.
The legal penalties for this degree of theft can involve up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Individuals convicted will have a permanent criminal record, which can impact future employment and housing opportunities. The court may also order the individual to repay the value of the stolen items. The property's value is generally determined by its retail or market value at the time of the theft. For first-time offenders, there may be options for lesser penalties or alternative sentencing.
Fifth-degree felonies are the least serious felony crimes in Ohio. They are considered less severe than fourth-degree felonies, which are punishable by a prison term of 6 to 18 months and a fine of up to $5,000.
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Fourth-degree felony theft: $7,500 to $150,000
In Ohio, theft is defined as the act of knowingly obtaining or exerting control over someone else's property or services without their consent, with the intention of depriving them of it. The classification of theft as a felony depends primarily on the value of the stolen property or services.
Fourth-degree felony theft in Ohio is associated with the theft of property or services valued between $7,500 and $150,000. This degree of felony theft is punishable by a definite prison term ranging from 6 to 18 months and a fine of up to $5,000. Examples of fourth-degree felonies include vehicle theft, promoting prostitution, and disrupting public services.
Theft becomes a felony in Ohio when the crime committed is not just a petty misdemeanor or a misdemeanor. Generally, if the stolen property amounts to more than $1,000, it is considered felony theft. However, there are exceptions where theft can be classified as a felony even if the amount is less than $1,000, depending on the circumstances. For instance, stealing a credit card or a vehicle may constitute a fifth-degree felony.
The state of Ohio categorizes felony offenses into five levels or degrees, with first-degree felonies being the most severe and fifth-degree felonies being the least. Felony charges are the most serious criminal charges in Ohio, and individuals convicted of a felony face prison sentences and fines. The specific sentencing guidelines vary depending on the degree of the felony, with first-degree felonies carrying the harshest penalties.
It is important to note that not all felony convictions lead to prison. Ohio offers community control, similar to probation, as an alternative option for certain offenses. Additionally, individuals convicted of non-violent offenses may be eligible for expungement under certain legal conditions.
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Third-degree felony theft: over $150,000
In Ohio, theft is defined as the act of knowingly obtaining or exerting control over someone else's property or services without their consent, with the intention of depriving them of it. The classification of theft as a felony depends primarily on the value of the stolen property or services.
Third-degree felony theft in Ohio involves the theft of property or services valued at over $150,000. This degree typically includes significant cases such as high-scale embezzlement, theft of luxury vehicles, expensive artwork or jewellery, and major fraud cases. The legal consequences for this degree of felony theft are severe, with potential imprisonment of 9 months to 3 years and fines of up to $10,000. However, the specific sentencing can vary depending on aggravating factors such as the defendant's criminal history and the nature of the theft.
The high value of the theft in third-degree felony cases often reflects a severe breach of trust, which can influence the sentencing. Courts may also order individuals to make restitution, which can be a substantial financial burden. Other serious charges, such as those related to the possession of firearms or dangerous items, often accompany this degree of theft.
It is important to note that the threshold for felony theft in Ohio starts at a lower value. Theft of property or services valued between $1,000 and $7,500 is considered a fifth-degree felony, while thefts ranging from $7,500 to $150,000 are classified as fourth-degree felonies. The legal penalties for fifth-degree felony theft can include up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, in addition to a permanent criminal record.
Across all degrees of felony theft in Ohio, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced attorney. They can guide individuals through their rights, discuss specific case details, and work towards reducing potential sentences.
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First-degree felony theft: over $1.5 million
In Ohio, theft is defined as the act of knowingly obtaining or exerting control over someone else's property or services without their consent, with the intention of depriving them of it. The classification of theft as a felony depends primarily on the value of the stolen property or services.
First-degree felony theft in Ohio involves the theft of property or services valued at over $1.5 million. This is considered the most serious theft crime in the state, with the most severe legal penalties. The penalties for a first-degree felony theft include a prison term ranging from three to 16.5 years and a fine of not more than $20,000. In addition to these criminal penalties, a person convicted of theft may also be civilly liable to the owner of the property for financial damages. The property owner can claim either the monetary or retail value of the property stolen, plus liquidated damages, or the greater of $200 or three times the value of the property. The court can also award the property owner attorney's fees and court costs.
The specific sentence within the authorized range is chosen by the court and represents the minimum sentence. Aggravating factors such as the defendant's criminal history or the nature of the theft can influence the severity of the punishment. For example, theft of a firearm or ordnance is treated with heightened seriousness due to the potential danger posed and the threat to public safety.
It is important to note that not all felony convictions lead to prison. The other main option is community control, which is similar to probation. Defendants placed under community control must abide by conditions that can include short jail stays, placement in detention or residential facilities, house arrest, electronic monitoring, drug or behavioural treatment, community service, and restitution, among other conditions.
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Non-monetary factors influencing felony theft charges
In Ohio, theft offenses are classified based on the monetary value of the property or services stolen, as well as the circumstances of the theft. While the value of the stolen items plays a significant role in determining the severity of felony theft charges, there are several non-monetary factors that can also influence the charges and subsequent penalties.
One crucial non-monetary factor is the nature of the stolen item. For instance, the theft of a firearm, explosives, military ordnance, or a vehicle is considered a felony in Ohio, regardless of the item's monetary value. This classification is due to the potential use of these items in further criminal activities and the threat they pose to public safety. Similarly, the theft of specialized animals like police dogs or horses, which are integral to law enforcement operations, is considered a felony.
Another non-monetary factor is the victim's status. If the victim is part of a protected class, such as the elderly, disabled individuals, or active-duty service members, the theft is treated more severely, even if the value of the stolen property is less than $1,000. The impact of the theft on the victim is also considered, including the financial and emotional impact, as well as the loss of income if the theft directly affected the victim's ability to earn.
The method of theft and the level of force or threat used can also influence the severity of the felony theft charge. Robbery, for example, is considered a more serious felony due to the use of a deadly weapon or the infliction of harm during the commission of the theft. Additionally, burglary, which involves trespassing with the intent to commit a theft, can be classified as a felony based on aggravating circumstances, such as the presence of another person during the trespassing.
The criminal history of the defendant can also play a role in the severity of the punishment. Prior convictions, especially for drug-related offenses, can lead to enhanced charges and penalties for subsequent theft offenses.
Finally, the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property is a key element in theft charges. If it can be argued that there was no intent to steal, or that the accused believed they had a right to the property or intended to return it, this can be a viable defense strategy.
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Frequently asked questions
In Ohio, felonies are the most serious criminal charges. They are the result of being sued for a severe crime. Felonies are classified into five levels or degrees, with first-degree felonies being the most serious and fifth-degree felonies being the least. Examples of first-degree felonies include murder, rape, kidnapping, and aggravated murder. Fifth-degree felony examples include breaking and entering, theft of property or services valued at least $1,000, and aggravated riot.
The penalties for a felony in Ohio depend on the degree of the felony. Generally, a felony conviction will result in a prison sentence of at least six months and can include fines of up to $20,000 for the most serious offenses. For fifth-degree felonies, the prison sentence ranges from six to twelve months, with fines up to $2,500.
Felony theft in Ohio is typically determined by the value of the stolen property or services. Theft of property or services valued at $1,000 or more is generally considered felony theft. However, there are circumstances where theft can be classified as a felony even if the amount is less than $1,000, such as stealing a credit card or a firearm.
The penalties for felony theft in Ohio depend on the degree of the felony. For fifth-degree felony theft, the penalties can include up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. For third-degree felony theft, involving property or services valued at over $150,000, the penalties are more severe, with potential imprisonment of 9 months to 3 years and fines up to $10,000.























