Federal identity theft charges usually carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison, but ID theft cases often include additional charges that can add to prison time.

Is identity theft a serious crime?

Identity theft is a criminal offense that is broadly defined as using another person’s identifying information without consent for fraudulent purposes. Under California Penal Code Section 530.5 PC, identity theft is a serious crime that can carry lengthy prison sentences.

What happens when you are charged with identity theft?

If prosecuted as a misdemeanor, the maximum punishment for identity theft in California is a year in county jail and a $1,000 fine. As a felony, the penalty can be as high as three years in jail and a $10,000 fine. The penalty for federal identity theft is up to 30 years prison time.

What is the best way to report identity theft?

Report Identity Theft. Report identity (ID) theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at IdentityTheft.gov or by phone at 1-877-438-4338. The FTC will collect the details of your situation.

What’s the punishment for first time identity theft?

Probation. For first-time offenders of identity theft crimes that do not result in significant harm, it’s possible a court might impose a probation sentence in addition to, or separate from, other penalties. Probation usually lasts at least a year, but sentences of three or more years are also common.

Can a person go to jail for identity theft?

But, they rarely do for that crime alone. Laws allow for identity thieves to be sentenced to serve time in jail. Unfortunately, identity thieves often are not prosecuted to that degree simply because of resources.

How long can you be on probation for identity theft?

Probation usually lasts at least a year, but probation sentences of three or more years are also common. People on probation have to comply with specific court-imposed restrictions, such as reporting to a probation officer, paying all restitution and fines, and not committing other crimes.

How big of a felony is aggravated identity theft?

Aggravated Identity Theft: Aggravated identity theft of credit, money, goods, services, or other property not exceeding $300 in value is a Class 3 felony. Aggravated identity theft of credit, money, goods, services, or other property exceeding $300 and not exceeding $10,000 in value is a Class 2 felony.