Atlantic City, NJ Lawyer Fights Your Theft by Deception Charges in Atlantic and Cape May Counties
When someone steals something from another person by deceiving that individual, a charge of theft by deception is likely. A common form of theft by deception involves writing bad checks; the person writing the check knows they don’t have enough money in the account but writes the check anyway. They have been able to steal something without actually paying for it, but they’ve deceived the “seller” into thinking they were paid.
If you’ve been charged with theft by deception, you should seek legal counsel without delay. Penalties for this charge can vary widely, and an experienced criminal defense attorney is your best chance at getting charges reduced or dismissed. John W. Tumelty has been helping New Jersey clients fight theft charges for more than 35 years. As a former prosecutor, he is able to anticipate the prosecution’s next moves and find holes in the state’s case. Mr. Tumelty has successfully defended many theft charges, including those for theft by deception for clients all over NJ, including Longport, Ventnor, Margate, Brigantine, Atlantic City and Little Egg Harbor.
Criminal Defense Attorney Fights to Get Theft by Deception Charges Dismissed in Wildwood, Margate and Little Egg Harbor
The check example from above is relatively common, but there are many ways to perform a theft by deception. Filling out an application with false information to obtain access to another person’s property or personal information (such as bank accounts), is also theft by deception.
However, an innocent mistake is not theft by deception. For example, if you accidentally write a bad check or mistakenly put incorrect information on an application, this is not a crime. In these cases, and many others, Mr. Tumelty will gather evidence to prove you did not mean to commit any theft. He may be able to get your charges downgraded, which would result in a lighter penalty if convicted.
The severity of theft by deception charges are dependent on several factors, including the dollar amount of goods or services stolen. Charges can range from a crime of the fourth degree to a crime of the second degree. The penalties for each grade are listed below:
- Second degree: Fines of $75,000 and up to 10 years in prison
- Third degree: Fines of between $500 and $75,000 and up to five years in prison
- Fourth degree: Fines of between $200 and $500 and up to 18 months in prison
There are multiple defenses for theft by deception charges. If this is your first offense, Mr. Tumelty can request a probationary sentence rather than jail time. You may also be eligible for the Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program, which will keep you out of jail and keep your record clean. A good lawyer will significantly improve your chances of a good outcome. Talk to Mr. Tumelty today about your charges.
If You’ve Been Charged with Theft by Deception, Contact John W. Tumelty
John W. Tumelty will be your best advocate throughout the entire process. He has successfully defended countless theft and burglary charges. There are many defenses to theft by deception charges, but a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is essential to getting your charges reduced or dismissed. Mr. Tumelty has been helping clients in Sea Isle City, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood, Cape May and across NJ for over 35 years. He wants to help you. Call today for a free consultation by phone or in one of his three conveniently located offices in Atlantic City, Marmora or Somer’s Point.
