What Is the Lowest Class Felony in Ohio?

Felonies are the most serious types of criminal charges in Ohio. However, not all felonies are punished in the same way. Ohio classifies felonies in five different degrees. First-degree felonies are the most severe, while fifth-degree felonies are the lowest felony class.

A conviction for a fifth-degree felony in Ohio can lead to a definite prison term between six and 12 months, as well as a fine of up to $2,500. If you have been charged with a fifth-degree felony in Ohio, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial for maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome in your case.

The following crimes are some of the examples of fifth-degree felonies that the team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder has experience defending against.

Drug Possession

In Ohio, you can face fifth-degree felony charges for possessing less than five grams of cocaine, less than one gram of heroin, or less than 10 doses of LSD. Many other drug crimes can lead to fifth-degree felony charges, requiring the support and advocacy of an experienced Ohio drug possession attorney.

Theft

Theft offenses involving property valued between $1,000-$7,500 are typically charged as fifth-degree felonies in Ohio. Factors such as the victim’s age, the location of the theft, and whether a deadly weapon was involved can enhance the charges.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence that causes physical harm is charged as a fifth-degree felony for a first offense in Ohio. Repeat offenses or situations involving pregnant victims or children present can lead to higher felony charges.

Breaking and Entering

Breaking and entering is considered a fifth-degree felony in Ohio when it involves trespassing into an unoccupied structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. This could include breaking into a business, home, or other building when the premises are vacant.

However, the charge can be elevated to a higher-degree felony, depending on certain circumstances. For instance, if the offender had a deadly weapon, attempted to inflict physical harm, or trespassed into an occupied structure, they could face more severe penalties.

Identity Fraud

In Ohio, knowingly using another person’s personal identifying information, like their name, date of birth, Social Security number, or credit card details, with the intent to defraud is typically charged as a fifth-degree felony for a first offense. Depending on the amount of funds or credit involved and whether multiple victims were defrauded, identity theft charges can rise to higher felony levels with stiffer punishments.

Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder Today

If you are facing charges for one of the above crimes or any other fifth-degree felony, the experienced Ohio defense attorneys at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder are ready to stand up for your rights and interests. Our seasoned lawyers can fight to have the charges dismissed, negotiate a plea bargain for lesser charges, seek an acquittal in court, and argue for lenient sentencing if necessary. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.