In the internet age we live in, a lot is computerized and thus accessible online. Identity theft in Oklahoma City has become an all-too-common crime.
We leave our personal identifying information a lot on the internet, and it becomes possible for identity thieves to gain access to it. If you happen to lose your smartphone, an identity thief can easily gain access to your personal information if they find the lost mobile device.
You may first become aware that your identity has been stolen when you receive bills that you do not remember incurring or you see activity on your statements that is suspect. Police officers could also knock on your door and ask for you, claiming you are wanted for a crime or a series of them.
Mistaken Identity
Police may be looking for you in what may be a case of mistaken identity. You could be mistaken for someone else when you have a close resemblance to a perpetrator or you have a similar name. Instances of mistaken identity are a lot more common than those of identity theft.
If police pick you up in a case of mistaken identity in Oklahoma City, talk to an experienced attorney as soon as you can to help in clearing you. Things could get complicated, and it is better when you have a legal expert on your side to help you out.
What is Identity Theft in Oklahoma City?
When identity theft has taken place, a person has access to your personal identifying information and uses it to commit a crime or for monetary gain. A person may steal your bank cards or apply for credit using your details and extravagantly use up available funds.
Another scenario of identity theft is when a perpetrator uses your identity to commit a crime or do something unlawful with the intention of framing you. This kind of case is somewhat rare, but they still happen.
An identity thief may create a complete alias using your personal information. In this kind of identity theft case, proving your innocence can turn out to be an uphill task, depending on the intelligence of the thief.
Law Enforcement Can Be Unflinching
When your identity is used to commit a crime, it becomes critical to prove your innocence to law enforcement officers. The more serious the crime committed using your identity, the more determined the police will be to nail the perpetrator, who to them may appear to be you.
Insisting on your innocence won’t convince them of much. They may even be more determined to build a case against you while noting with disapproval your uncooperative attitude.
Law enforcement officers are accustomed to hearing all manner of denials when a suspect is brought in, so your denials won’t be unusual.
Talk to an identity theft attorney as soon as you hear of the charges against you. Such a lawyer has the necessary experience to advise you on what you should do.
When You are the Accused
You could also find yourself mistakenly accused of identity theft. You could be close to someone’s personal information; thus, authorities may believe you stole the data and used it fraudulently. If you happen to be arraigned in court, the prosecutor must prove that you had the intention of using someone’s personal information fraudulently.
Alongside proving intent, the prosecutor must also prove that you had no permission to use the information.
Identity theft is a felony in Oklahoma City. You could spend between one to five years in prison, pay a fine of up to $100,000, or both. You could also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim.
Get Help
If the police have evidence that you were involved in certain crimes and are showing you dates and signatures and other personal details that are yours, you need to talk to a lawyer immediately. You could be a victim of identity theft.
Also, if someone is a victim of identity theft and you are the suspect, talk to our criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can.
Do not be frightened and begin talking too much to investigators. Let a qualified Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney be at your side as you speak to law enforcement officers and other investigators.
Initial Consultation: Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Attorney
We make it easy for you to get answers to your most pressing questions. There is no cost and no obligation for an initial consultation with our Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney. Call today for answers to your questions.
Our lawyer is well positioned to advise you accordingly, as he has the necessary training and experience. He has the wit and tenacity to match the skill of the Oklahoma City prosecutors.
For a initial consultation, call the Criminal Defense Law Office of Oklahoma City at 405-588-4529 (588-4LAW) today.
If you prefer, you may send your question using the contact form at the top right side of this page.