Credit Card Fraud Attorney in Cincinnati, OH

Charged with Misusing Credit Cards? LHA Can Help.

Being accused of credit card fraud or misuse in Ohio can feel overwhelming. However, many theft and fraud cases begin with misunderstandings. Whether you used someone else’s card with assumed permission or were unaware a card was stolen, these charges are serious and can affect your record, career, and freedom. At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we’ve defended countless people across Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky against credit card fraud-related offenses. Let us help you understand your situation and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call (513) 338-1890  for a free and confidential consultation 24/7.

What is Misuse of a Credit Card / Credit Card Fraud?

Misuse of credit cards or credit card fraud is a serious offense in Ohio. Oftenr considered a white collar offense, misuse of credit cards can be defined according to the Ohio Revised Code (ORC 2913.21) as anyone who does any of the following:

• Uses means of deception to have a credit card issued;
• Knowingly purchases a credit card from anyone other than its issuer, or sells a credit card to another individual;
• If you have the purpose or intention to defraud and obtain control over a credit card as a security for a debt;
• If you have the purpose or intention to defraud and use a credit card to obtain property or services knowing that it was expired, revoked or violates the law;
• If you have the purpose or intention to defraud and give property or services to an individual who presents a credit card that you knew was being used in violation of the law;
• If you have the purpose or intention to defraud and let a credit card issuer believe that you provided property or services in exchange for a payment when you did not;
• In addition to any of the above, had the purpose or intention to receive, possess, control, or dispose of a credit card.
• If you are facing conviction for the misuse of credit cards, you will most likely be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. This will entail up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

If you are facing more than one violation of misusing credit cards within a 90-day period, you may face a fourth-degree felony depending on the value of the property or services involved in your particular case. A fourth-degree felony will entail at least six and up to 18 months in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.

Ohio Credit Card Fraud Laws

You or a loved one may have been charged after a credit card fraud investigation, which may involve:

• Tracing credit card numbers reported by owners as lost or stolen
• Tracking account numbers of lost or stolen cards as they are used
• Sting operations where law enforcement agents pose as illegal credit card brokers
• Law enforcement alerting stores and businesses to potential credit card fraud perpetrators

Under Ohio law, credit or debit card fraud involves identity fraud and misusing another’s personal identifying information. Identity fraud covers:

• Without the other person’s consent, using, obtaining, or possessing personal identifying information of the other person with the intent to impersonate the other person or present the other person’s personal identifying information as their own
• Creating, obtaining, possessing, or using the personal identifying information of any person to aid or abet another in identity fraud
• With the intent to defraud, permitting one’s own personal identifying information to be used in identity fraud

Misuse of credit cards includes:

• An unauthorized online purchase
• Purchases with a stolen or fraudulent device
• Having and creating fake card readers
• Asking others to make fraudulent transactions

How Credit Card Fraud Cases Are Investigated

Credit card fraud investigations are often extensive. Law enforcement may:

• Track card numbers reported lost or stolen
• Monitor purchases linked to compromised accounts
• Conduct sting operations to catch people selling or using stolen cards
• Coordinate with retailers and credit card companies to flag suspicious transactions

Being caught up in such an investigation doesn’t mean you’re guilty. But it does mean you need legal protection now.

When Does Credit Card Fraud Become a Federal Offense?

Fraud becomes a federal crime when it involves interstate commerce. This could include:

• Using a stolen card to purchase goods shipped across state lines
• Receiving fraudulent purchases via U.S. mail
• Transporting fake cards or skimmers across state borders

Federal convictions can lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines of $10,000 or more.

Penalties for Credit Card Fraud in Cincinnati, Ohio

Penalties depend on the circumstances, including the amount of money involved and the victim’s status.

• First-Degree Misdemeanor (e.g., one-time misuse): Up to 180 days in jail and $1,000 in fines
• Fourth-Degree Felony (e.g., multiple violations in 90 days or property/services valued over $1,000): 6 to 18 months in prison and up to $5,000 in fines
• Identity Fraud Involving Protected Class (elderly, disabled, active military, etc.): Enhanced penalties, including up to 8 years in prison and $50,000 in fines
• Federal Charges: Up to 10 years in federal prison and restitution

Defenses to Credit Card Fraud Charges

Several affirmative and practical defenses may apply:

• Consent: You had permission from the cardholder to use the card
• Lack of Intent: You didn’t know the card was invalid or stolen
• Lawful Role: You were acting as a fiduciary, guardian, or conservator
• Lawful Purpose: The identifying information was used for legitimate, non-fraudulent purposes

Even if prosecutors establish the elements of the crime, these defenses can result in dismissal or reduced charges.

How a Cincinnati Credit Card Fraud Attorney Can Help You

Facing Credit Card Fraud Charges? Contact LHA Now

Misuse of credit card charges can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. You are probably worried about your freedoms and privileges being at stake and have a lot of questions. You can rest assured, because the Cincinnati Criminal Defense team is here for you. Get the justice that you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (513) 338-1890 or email us at advice@cincinnaticriminalattorney.com.