Cincinnati Receiving Stolen Property Lawyer

If you’ve been accused of receiving stolen property in Cincinnati, Ohio, you could face serious criminal charges—even if you didn’t steal anything yourself. Under Ohio Revised Code 2913.51, receiving, retaining, or disposing of property that you know or should reasonably suspect was obtained through theft is illegal. The penalties range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value and type of property involved.

What Is Receiving Stolen Property?

Receiving stolen property means taking possession of someone else’s property while knowing or having reason to believe it was stolen. The crime isn’t limited to physically taking the item. Receiving stolen property also includes:

• Storing or hiding the stolen item
• Selling or attempting to sell it
• Giving it away or discarding it

Even if you no longer possess the item, you may still face theft charges if it can be shown you knew it was stolen and failed to report or return it.

Penalties for Receiving Stolen Property in Ohio

Ohio classifies the severity of charges based on the value of the stolen goods and the type of property involved:

• Under $1,000: First-degree misdemeanor – Up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine
• $1,000 to $7,500: Fifth-degree felony – Up to 12 months in prison and $2,500 fine
• $7,500 to $150,000 or involving firearms/vehicles: Fourth-degree felony – Up to 18 months in prison and $5,000 fine
• Over $150,000: Third-degree felony – Up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 fine

How Prosecutors Prove the Crime

To convict you of receiving stolen property, the prosecution must prove three key elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• The property was stolen
• You knew or reasonably should have known it was stolen
• You intended to deprive the owner of the property

Prosecutors often use circumstantial evidence such as the price you paid, the source of the item, or your behavior after receiving it to establish knowledge or intent.

Legal Defenses for Receiving Stolen Property Charges

A skilled Cincinnati criminal defense attorney may be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed. Common defenses include:

• Lack of Knowledge: You did not know and had no reason to believe the item was stolen
• Intent to Return: You planned to return the property to the owner or report it to the police
• Lawful Purchase: You purchased the item in good faith through a reputable source (e.g., Amazon, eBay)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be arrested if I didn’t know the item was stolen?
Yes, if the court believes you had “reasonable cause to believe” it was stolen. This is why it’s important to act quickly if you’re accused.

Is receiving stolen property a felony in Ohio?
It can be. Charges escalate based on the item’s value and whether the property was a firearm, vehicle, or part of a larger theft scheme.

Can charges for receiving stolen property be dismissed in Cincinnati?
Yes. Your attorney may be able to challenge the evidence, prove you lacked knowledge, or negotiate a diversion program, especially if you’re a first-time offender.

Will a conviction affect my record?
Absolutely. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, you may be eligible to seal your record immediately under Ohio law if charges are dismissed.

Where are these cases handled in Cincinnati?
Most theft-related charges are prosecuted in the Hamilton County Municipal Court or Common Pleas Court. Having local legal representation gives you a strategic advantage.

Accused of Receiving Stolen Property? Call LHA

If you are accused of receiving stolen property in Ohio, you need to act quickly to protect your legal rights. This serious crime can lead to felony charges, jail time, fines, a criminal record, and more.

Our Cincinnati criminal defense lawyers at Luftman, Heck & Associates can help formulate a solid defense to get your charges and penalties reduced or dropped altogether. Our aggressive representation will help you get favorable results.

Your reputation is on the line. Fight for your legal rights by contacting Luftman, Heck & Associates. To schedule your free consultation, call (513) 338-1890.