Robbery, Burglary & Theft Defense Lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio

Robbery and burglary are serious felony offenses in Ohio, carrying harsh penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Robbery involves the use or threat of force, while burglary refers to unlawfully entering a property with the intent to commit a crime. Theft offenses, whether misdemeanor or felony, can result in fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we aggressively defend clients against robbery, burglary, and theft charges. We analyze all evidence, challenge witness testimony, and explore defenses such as mistaken identity or lack of intent. Our goal is to minimize the consequences and protect your future.

Understanding Robbery, Burglary & Theft Charges in Ohio

Ohio law treats robbery, burglary, and theft as serious property crimes, with penalties ranging from misdemeanor fines to lengthy prison sentences for felony convictions. These offenses involve unlawfully taking or attempting to take property through force, deception, or unlawful entry, and prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions—especially when violence or weapons are involved.

Types of Robbery, Burglary & Theft Charges in Ohio

Robbery (Felony 2nd or 3rd Degree - F2 or F3) – Taking property from another person using force, threats, or intimidation. If a weapon was involved or serious harm occurred, charges can escalate.

Aggravated Robbery (Felony 1st Degree - F1) – Committing a robbery with a deadly weapon, causing serious harm, or targeting a protected individual (e.g., police officer, store employee).

Burglary (Felony 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Degree - F2, F3, or F4) – Unlawfully entering a structure or home with the intent to commit a crime. The severity depends on whether the building was occupied and whether force or threats were used.

Aggravated Burglary (Felony 1st Degree - F1) – Entering a home or building with a weapon or intent to harm someone inside.

Theft (Misdemeanor 1st Degree to Felony 1st Degree - M1 to F1) – Unlawfully taking property without consent, with charges based on the value of the stolen goods.

Grand Theft (Felony 4th or 3rd Degree - F4 or F3) – Theft of property valued over $7,500, such as vehicles, firearms, or credit card fraud.

Penalties for Robbery, Burglary & Theft in Ohio

The penalties for robbery, burglary, and theft depend on the value of the stolen property, whether violence was involved, and prior criminal history.

Robbery & Aggravated Robbery

Robbery (F3) – 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Robbery (F2 - With a weapon or harm caused) – 2 to 8 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.

Aggravated Robbery (F1) – Up to life in prison and fines up to $20,000.

Burglary & Aggravated Burglary

Burglary (F4 - Unoccupied structure) – 6 to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000.

Burglary (F3 - Occupied structure, no violence) – 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Burglary (F2 - Occupied structure, with force or threats) – 2 to 8 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.

Aggravated Burglary (F1) – Up to life in prison and fines up to $20,000.

Theft & Grand Theft

Misdemeanor Theft (M1 - Under $1,000 stolen) – Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000.

Felony Theft (F5 - $1,000 to $7,500 stolen) – 6 to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500.

Grand Theft (F4 - $7,500 to $150,000 stolen) – 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Aggravated Theft (F1 - Over $1.5 million stolen) – Up to 11 years in prison and fines up to $20,000.

Collateral Consequences of a Robbery, Burglary, or Theft Conviction

Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction for robbery, burglary, or theft can have lasting consequences, including:

A permanent felony record, making it difficult to secure employment, housing, or loans.

Loss of firearm rights for felony convictions.

Immigration consequences, including deportation for non-citizens.

Difficulty obtaining professional licenses or government benefits.

Potential civil lawsuits from victims, requiring financial restitution.

Because property crime charges often rely on surveillance footage, eyewitness testimony, and circumstantial evidence, it is critical to have a skilled defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case, negotiate reduced charges, or seek case dismissal.

If you are facing robbery, burglary, or theft charges in Ohio, Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A. will provide an aggressive and strategic defense to fight for your rights and your future.