What are the most common consequences for committing identity theft?

Identity theft criminals are on a rampage. With the increasing number of identity theft cases, state governments have become stricter in the enforcement of identity theft laws. Identity theft, which is defined as willful obtainment and use of another person’s identity or identifying information for personal gain, has several penalties. Penalties for this crime differ according to the gravity of the offense and the location of the accused.

Some of the most common consequences of committing identity theft are prison term and fine payment, although the duration of imprisonment and amount of the fine depends primarily on the state laws. For example, in Delaware, if the identity theft crime is considered a Class A misdemeanor, the penalties would include jail sentence of up to one year and fine payment of $1,200. For Class D felony, penalties are jail sentence from 2 to 8 years and fine payment of up to $10,000. In Indiana, meanwhile, this crime usually falls under Class D felony, which faces penalties like jail time of six months to 3 years and fine payment of up to $10,000. For more serious cases, it can be raised to Class C felony, and the penalties include 2 to 8 year imprisonment and fine payment of up to $10,000. If you have prior record to this crime or any other offense, the penalties may be increased. If identity theft was used to commit a crime such as murder, the penalties are expected to be a lot harsher. If you are ever involved in such criminal charge, be sure to talk with a reliable attorney.