What is Identity Theft
Identity theft is a crime that involves using another person’s identifying information to access money or property. The most common example is using another person’s debit or credit card to make purchases without their consent. Other types of identify theft include:
- Selling, possessing, or buying fake ID cards
- Creating fake ID cards
- Using forged checks
Anyone can be a Victim of Identity Theft
Under Nevada law, anyone can be a victim of identify theft – even if the person whose identity is stolen is dead. In fact, the fact that the victim is dead is not a defense to identity theft.
If the victim is over 60 years old, or if the victim is someone who suffers from a mental or physical limitation that affects their activities of daily living, the penalties will be increased. Enhanced penalties also apply to person under 60 and to people without mental or physical limitation if the total value of the victim’s loss exceeds $3,000.
Identity Theft Punishment is Severe
Most Identity Theft cases are charged as Class B Felonies. This means a person charged with Identity Theft can face up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000; and because identity theft involves theft, you will also be required to pay restitution to the victim.
Identity Theft is also a Federal Crime
Identity Theft is also widely and aggressively prosecuted at the federal level. In federal court, a person convicted of Identity Theft can face up to 15 years in federal prison in addition to fines and payment of restitution. Federal law also provides that the restitution to the victim can include reimbursement for time and money the victim spends repairing his or her credit or other harm resulting from the identity theft.
If you or someone you know has been charged with Identity Theft, call The Wright Law Group, P.C. today. Our attorneys have more than two decades of experience in criminal defense law, and we are ready to help you. Call us now at (702) 405-0001 to arrange a consultation.