As a seasoned Chicago criminal defense attorney, I have witnessed the myriad ways in which financial misconduct can manifest, especially during times of economic upheaval. The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), established to provide relief to businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, unfortunately, has also become a fertile ground for fraud.…
Shoplifting is a common criminal charge in Chicago, encompassing a range of actions from stealing merchandise to altering price tags. The consequences of a shoplifting conviction can be significant, affecting not only legal records but also future employment opportunities and social reputation. Understanding the nuances of Illinois law regarding shoplifting,…
Identity theft is an increasingly prevalent issue that affects countless individuals, leading to significant financial and personal repercussions. In Illinois, the legal statutes surrounding this offense are detailed in 720 ILCS 5/16-30, which provides a comprehensive framework for prosecuting identity theft crimes. This article will explore the specifics of the…
Possession of Lost or Stolen Credit or Debit Cards Under 720 ILCS 5 In Illinois, possessing lost or stolen credit or debit cards is a criminal offense that can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and incarceration. Under the Illinois Compiled Statutes, specifically 720 ILCS 5/16-1.5, this offense is…
In retail settings, incidents of suspected shoplifting are not uncommon, and how they are handled can significantly vary from one store to another. Customers often wonder about their rights and whether a store employee can legally prevent them from leaving the premises on suspicion of shoplifting. Let’s now explore the…
A Chicago man has been charged with carjacking from an incident that occurred last March, according to a recent press release. The incident occurred in Mount Prospect, and Mount Prospect police initiated the arrest. According to the report, the incident occurred at 11 p.m. on March 19, 2022. A white Hyundai Santa Fe was…
A 31-year-old Chicago woman pleaded guilty to weapons charges in connection with an arrest related to looting during the George Floyd protests. She was charged with the possession of a firearm by a felon after officers spotted her in the doorway of a bar. The woman was found in possession…
After social media videos disseminated online showed how certain models of vehicles can be hotwired, reports of car thefts have skyrocketed in the Chicago area. Criminal experts say that the boom in car thefts is only partly related to the videos, and carjackings and similar crimes are also accounting for a spurt…
The victim in this case shot and wounded one of the suspects in an attempted carjacking. The crime occurred in the 7600 block of Cicero Ave near the Ford City Mall, according to the report. The victim, who was 24, was approached by two suspects, one of whom was carrying a handgun.…
Since retail theft crimes have become a major problem across the U.S., the Chicago police department has initiated a sprawling effort to reduce the overall number of retail thefts and ensure the prosecution of those who are caught. An Illinois man has since been charged with eight counts of non-probational felony theft…