If you face theft charges in Bloomington, the decisions you make now will shape your future. A theft conviction can damage your employment prospects, professional licenses, and reputation in your community. Bruno Law Offices has defended clients against theft crimes for 45 years. Our team of theft defense lawyers in Bloomington understands Illinois theft laws and knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case. Serving clients in Bloomington, Normal, and throughout McLean County, we provide strong defense strategies tailored to your specific situation. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Understanding Theft Charges in Illinois
Before exploring the penalties, it’s important to understand how Illinois defines and categorizes theft offenses. The classification of the charge determines the potential consequences you may face.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Theft
Illinois classifies theft crimes based on the value of the property taken and the circumstances of the offense. Misdemeanor theft typically involves property valued under $500. Felony theft applies to higher-value property or when aggravating factors exist, such as theft from a person or theft involving a firearm.
The distinction matters significantly. A misdemeanor conviction may result in up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. A felony conviction carries much steeper penalties, including potential prison time ranging from one to fifteen years, depending on the felony class. Under Illinois Compiled Statutes (720 ILCS 5/16-1), theft classifications determine sentencing ranges and collateral consequences.
Theft Sentencing and Penalties
Illinois sentencing for theft depends on several factors: the property’s value, whether you have prior convictions, and the specific circumstances. Felony theft classifications are as follows:
- Class 4 Felony (property valued under $500 with aggravating factors such as theft from school, place of worship, government property, or prior theft conviction): 1-3 years in prison
- Class 3 Felony (property valued $500-$10,000): 2-5 years in prison
- Class 2 Felony (property valued $10,000-$100,000): 3-7 years in prison
- Class 1 Felony (property valued $100,000-$500,000): 4-15 years in prison
- Class X Felony (property valued over $1,000,000): 6-30 years in prison (mandatory minimum)
Beyond prison time, a theft conviction results in restitution orders requiring you to repay the victim. You may also face probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing. The Illinois Department of Corrections maintains records of all felony convictions.
Types of Theft Crimes We Defend
We handle a wide range of theft-related charges in Bloomington and McLean County. Our Bloomington criminal defense attorneys understand the nuances of each offense and develop targeted defense strategies accordingly.
Common theft charges we defend include:
- Shoplifting and retail theft
- Burglary and home invasion
- Auto theft
- Embezzlement and fraud
- Robbery and armed robbery
- Receiving stolen property
- Theft from vehicles
Each charge carries distinct legal elements and penalties. We investigate the specific facts of your case to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Shoplifting and Retail Theft
Retail theft charges often stem from allegations of concealing merchandise or leaving a store without paying. Many shoplifting cases involve weak evidence or mistaken identity. We examine store surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports to identify inconsistencies. We also challenge whether you actually intended to steal or whether the store’s loss prevention procedures were proper. Retail theft defense requires understanding both the elements of the crime and the procedural protections available to defendants.
Burglary and Home Invasion
Burglary involves entering a building with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Home invasion is a distinct offense involving entry into a dwelling with force or threat. These charges carry serious penalties. We investigate whether you actually entered the building, whether you had permission to be there, and whether the prosecution can prove your intent to commit a crime. Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/19-1), burglary is classified as a felony with enhanced penalties.
Auto Theft
Auto theft charges require proof that you took a vehicle without the owner’s permission and intended to permanently deprive them of it. We examine whether you had permission, whether you intended to return the vehicle, and whether the vehicle identification was properly established. Grand theft auto cases often involve complex evidence regarding intent and ownership.
Embezzlement and Fraud
Embezzlement involves taking property entrusted to you by an employer or organization. Fraud involves deception to obtain property or money. These white-collar crimes require careful analysis of financial records, employment agreements, and communications. We challenge whether the prosecution can prove intent and whether proper procedures were followed in the investigation.
Theft Defense Strategies
Effective theft defense requires examining the evidence from multiple angles. We challenge whether the prosecution can prove you committed the theft beyond a reasonable doubt. Our defense strategies address the key elements prosecutors must establish.
We pursue multiple defense approaches depending on your case:
- Question the identification of the defendant
- Challenge the chain of custody for evidence
- Examine whether the police conducted proper searches
- Explore whether you had permission to take the property
- Determine whether you intended to return it
- Investigate whether police violated your constitutional rights during arrest or interrogation
- Negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges or recommend alternative sentencing options like diversion programs
Evidence obtained through constitutional violations may be excluded from trial, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case. We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence at every opportunity.
The Theft Defense Process
When you hire Bruno Law Offices, we begin with a thorough case evaluation. We review police reports, witness statements, and any available evidence. We discuss your account of events and identify potential defenses.
Next, we conduct our own investigation. We interview witnesses, obtain surveillance footage, and examine physical evidence. We file discovery requests to obtain all evidence the prosecution possesses, as well as file motions to suppress evidence if police violated your rights. This investigative phase is critical to building a strong criminal defense.
We then negotiate with the prosecution. Many theft cases are resolved through plea agreements that reduce charges or recommend lighter sentences. If negotiation doesn’t produce a favorable outcome, we prepare for trial. We develop a trial strategy, prepare witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence in court.
Throughout this process, we keep you informed and involved in all decisions. We explain your options clearly and help you understand the potential outcomes of each choice.
Why Choose Bruno Law Offices for Your Theft Defense
Your defense requires more than a generic criminal lawyer. Bruno Law Offices brings decades of focused experience exclusively in criminal defense. Our team includes Anthony Bruno, a Federal Criminal Justice Act Panel Member, and Evan Bruno, a former Illinois Fourth District Appellate Court Clerk with extensive experience in appellate practice. We understand the stakes of a theft conviction and work to reduce its impact on your life.
Our approach combines thorough investigation, strategic negotiation, and trial preparation. We examine every piece of evidence, challenge improper police procedures, and explore all available defenses. Whether your case involves shoplifting, burglary, fraud, or another theft crime, we develop a defense strategy built on the facts of your situation, not assumptions. For example, we recently secured a dismissal of a credit card fraud felony after demonstrating that corporate records proved the allegations false. This case exemplifies our commitment to uncovering the truth and protecting our clients’ rights. We offer free consultations so you can discuss your case with an experienced attorney before making any decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm arrested for theft?
Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer police questions without an attorney present. Request to speak with a Bloomington theft defense lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact Bruno Law Offices as soon as possible so we can protect your rights from the beginning. The right to counsel is a fundamental constitutional protection.
Can theft charges be dismissed?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, if your constitutional rights were violated, or if the evidence was obtained improperly. We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case at every stage. Dismissal of charges is one of the most favorable outcomes in criminal defense.
How does a criminal record affect employment?
A theft conviction may affect employment opportunities in positions involving financial responsibility or handling valuables. However, Illinois law requires employers to assess whether there is a substantial relationship between the conviction and the specific job duties. Illinois law provides protections against automatic employment discrimination based on criminal convictions under the Illinois Human Rights Act and the Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act. Professional licenses may be affected, particularly in fields involving financial responsibility, healthcare, and personal care services.
Can I get my record expunged after a theft conviction?
Illinois allows expungement of certain criminal records. Most misdemeanor convictions may be expunged after 2 years if you meet certain conditions. However, specific misdemeanors, including retail theft, domestic battery, and criminal sexual abuse, require a 5-year waiting period. For felonies, only Class 4 non-violent felonies are eligible for expungement (5-year waiting period). Violent felonies, firearm-related offenses, DUIs, domestic battery, and sex crimes are permanently ineligible for expungement. Illinois HB 3139 (2025) streamlines automatic expungement through the Illinois State Police, with filing fees eliminated for eligible cases. We can advise you on expungement eligibility and file the necessary petitions.
How much does a theft defense attorney cost?
We offer free consultations to discuss your case and fees. Our rates vary depending on case complexity and whether the case goes to trial. We discuss all costs upfront so you understand what to expect.
Contact our Bloomington Theft Defense Lawyers for Your Free Consultation
Don’t face theft charges alone. The decisions you make now will affect your future. Bruno Law Offices provides experienced, strong defense for theft crimes in Bloomington and throughout McLean County. Call 309-861-9960 today to schedule your free consultation. We answer calls 24/7 and can discuss your case immediately. Let us fight for your rights and your future.