Accusations of theft or fraud in Lake Charles, Louisiana, can severely damage your
reputation, career, and freedom. These crimes, ranging from misdemeanor shoplifting to complex
federal white-collar offenses, carry significant penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and
restitution. At The Colonna Law Firm, LLC, our dedicated Lake Charles Criminal Defense
Attorney, Jacob Colonna, provides aggressive and strategic defense for individuals facing theft,
fraud, and other financial crime charges in Southwest Louisiana.
We understand that these cases often involve complex financial documentation, detailed
investigations, and the critical question of intent. Do NOT speak to law enforcement or federal
agents without legal counsel. Your future depends on acting swiftly to protect your rights.
Understanding Theft Crimes in Louisiana
Theft in Louisiana (La. R.S. 14:67) is defined as the misappropriation or taking of anything
of value that belongs to another, either without consent or by means of fraudulent conduct,
practices, or representations. A key element is the intent to permanently deprive the owner
of their property.
The severity of a theft charge and its penalties largely depend on the value of the stolen
property and any prior convictions.
General Theft Penalties in Louisiana (La. R.S. 14:67):
Less than $1,000: Misdemeanor. Up to 6 months in parish jail, and/or fine up to $1,000.
(Note: A third or subsequent conviction for theft of this value can become a felony, with
up to 2 years imprisonment.)
$1,000 to less than $5,000: Felony. Imprisonment with or without hard labor for up to 5
years, and/or fine up to $3,000.
$5,000 to less than $25,000: Felony. Imprisonment with or without hard labor for up to
10 years, and/or fine up to $10,000.
$25,000 or more: Felony. Imprisonment at hard labor for up to 20 years, and/or fine up
to $50,000.
Specific Theft-Related Crimes We Defend:
Shoplifting (Theft of Goods – La. R.S. 14:67.10): This is a specific form of theft that
applies to merchandise held for sale by a merchant. It includes concealing goods, altering
price tags, switching packaging, or causing a register to reflect less than the actual price.
Penalties mirror general theft based on value.
Burglary: Unlike theft, burglary is a crime against a place with intent to commit a crime
inside.
o Simple Burglary (La. R.S. 14:62): Unauthorized entering of any structure
(dwelling, vehicle, watercraft, etc.) with the intent to commit a felony or any theft
therein. Penalties: Up to 12 years imprisonment, or a fine up to $2,000, or both. If
armed with a firearm, mandatory minimum of 3 years imprisonment.
o Simple Burglary of an Inhabited Dwelling (La. R.S. 14:62.2): Specifically
applies to homes, carrying enhanced penalties (1 to 12 years at hard labor).
o Aggravated Burglary (La. R.S. 14:60): Unauthorized entering of an inhabited
dwelling where a person is present, and the offender is armed or commits a
battery on an occupant. This is a Crime of Violence, carrying 1 to 30 years
imprisonment at hard labor.
Robbery: This involves taking property by force or intimidation. It is a violent crime.
o Simple Robbery (La. R.S. 14:65): Taking by force or intimidation, but not
armed. Up to 7 years imprisonment.
o Armed Robbery (La. R.S. 14:64): Taking by force or intimidation while armed
with a dangerous weapon. Mandatory 10-99 years hard labor, without benefit of
parole.
o First Degree Robbery (La. R.S. 14:64.1): Victim reasonably believes offender is
armed with a dangerous weapon, even if they aren’t. 3-40 years hard labor, no
benefits.
o Carjacking (La. R.S. 14:64.2): Taking a motor vehicle from a person by force or
intimidation. 5-20 years hard labor, no benefits.
Theft of a Motor Vehicle (La. R.S. 14:67.26): Specific statute for vehicle theft, with
penalties based on vehicle value.
Theft of a Firearm (La. R.S. 14:67.15): Stealing a firearm carries specific, mandatory
penalties (2-10 years imprisonment at hard labor for a first offense).
Unauthorized Use of a Movable (La. R.S. 14:68): Taking or using a movable (like a
vehicle or boat) without the owner’s consent, but without the intent to permanently
deprive them. This is generally a misdemeanor for a first offense.
Illegal Possession of Stolen Things (La. R.S. 14:69): Receiving, possessing, or
disposing of anything of value that has been stolen, knowing or having good reason to
believe it was stolen. Penalties based on the value of the stolen item.
Understanding Fraud Crimes (White Collar Crimes) in Louisiana
Fraud involves deception, misrepresentation, or trickery to obtain money, property, or services
illegally. These are often categorized as “white collar crimes,” typically non-violent offenses
committed for financial gain. They often involve complex financial transactions and extensive
documentation.
Types of Fraud Charges We Defend in Lake Charles:
Embezzlement (La. R.S. 14:67): This is a form of theft where the misappropriation or
taking occurs by a person who was entrusted with the property. It often involves
employees or fiduciaries stealing from an employer or client. Penalties are the same as
general theft based on the value misappropriated.
Credit Card Fraud (La. R.S. 14:67.11 / 14:67.14 / 14:67.17): This broad category
includes:
o Unauthorized use of another’s credit/debit card.
o Using a revoked or expired card.
o Fraudulent acquisition of a credit card.
o Credit card skimming (using devices to illegally obtain card data).
o Credit card fraud often goes hand-in-hand with identity theft. Penalties vary
significantly, from misdemeanors (for low value) to felonies with up to 10-15
years in prison and large fines for high-value fraud, repeat offenses, or skimming
operations.
Identity Theft (La. R.S. 14:67.16): The unauthorized use, transfer, or possession of
another person’s identifying information (e.g., name, Social Security number, financial
account numbers) to obtain credit, money, goods, services, or anything of value.
o Penalties: Vary based on the value obtained, ranging from misdemeanors (up to 6
months jail, $500 fine for less than $300 value) to felonies (up to 10 years hard
labor, $10,000 fine for $1,000+ value). Penalties are enhanced if the victim is
elderly, disabled, or a minor.
Bank Fraud (La. R.S. 14:71.1): Knowingly executing or attempting to execute a scheme
to defraud a financial institution or to obtain money/property from a financial institution
by false pretenses. This is a serious felony.
o Penalties: Up to 10 years imprisonment (with or without hard labor), or up to
$100,000 fine, or both. Restitution to victims is also mandatory.
Insurance Fraud (La. R.S. 22:1924): Committing any act with the intent to injure,
defraud, or deceive an insurance company, or any party involved in a claim. This includes
false statements on applications or claims.
o Penalties: Felony, imprisonment, and fines, with restitution. Less than $1,000 can
be a misdemeanor.
Healthcare Fraud: Similar to insurance fraud, but specifically related to defrauding
health care benefit programs through false claims or schemes.
Forgery (La. R.S. 14:72): False making or altering of a written instrument (like a check
or document) with intent to defraud.
Monetary Instrument Abuse (La. R.S. 14:71.4): Possessing, selling, or circulating a
forged or counterfeit monetary instrument with intent to defraud.
Defending Against Theft and Fraud Charges in Lake Charles
The prosecution in theft and fraud cases often relies on circumstantial evidence, financial
records, and witness testimony. An aggressive defense is crucial. Our Lake Charles theft and
fraud attorney will:
Scrutinize the Evidence: Meticulously analyze financial documents, digital records,
witness statements, and police reports for inconsistencies, inaccuracies, or illegally
obtained evidence.
Challenge Intent: A key element in most theft and fraud cases is the “intent to
permanently deprive” or “intent to defraud.” We will challenge the prosecution’s ability to
prove this intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Lack of Knowledge: Arguing that you were unaware of the illicit nature of the activity
or the stolen property.
Mistaken Identity or False Accusations: If you were wrongly accused or misidentified.
Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn’t
have.
Constitutional Violations: Ensuring that all evidence was obtained legally and your
rights were protected during investigation and arrest.
Negotiate with Prosecutors: Leverage our experience and relationships with District
Attorneys to explore plea bargains, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing options that
can mitigate severe penalties.
Why Choose Colonna Law Firm, LLC for Theft & Fraud Defense in Lake Charles?
The consequences of a theft or fraud conviction can be life-altering, leading to imprisonment,
substantial fines, and a criminal record that haunts your future employment, housing, and
financial opportunities. You need a dedicated and knowledgeable legal advocate on your side.
At The Colonna Law Firm, LLC, our Lake Charles Theft & Fraud Attorney, Jacob Colonna,
provides:
Comprehensive Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in gathering all relevant
facts and evidence to build a robust defense.
Strategic Defense Planning: We develop a tailored legal strategy designed to achieve
the best possible outcome for your specific situation.
Aggressive Courtroom Advocacy: While we explore all avenues for favorable plea
bargains, we are fully prepared to litigate fiercely on your behalf in court, challenging
the prosecution’s case at every turn.
Protecting Your Reputation: We understand that facing these charges can damage your
standing in the community, and we work to preserve your integrity.
If you or a loved one has been accused of theft, fraud, or any financial crime in Lake Charles,
LA, or Calcasieu Parish, your future is on the line. Do not hesitate to seek experienced legal
help.
Contact The Colonna Law Firm, LLC immediately for a free and confidential consultation.
Let us fight to protect your freedom and your future.