Columbus and Delaware, Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with possessing criminal tools in Columbus or Delaware, Ohio, contact Johnson Legal, LLC and speak with an experienced Columbus and Delaware, Ohio criminal defense attorney. Attorney David Johnson of Johnson Legal, LLC will discuss your case and assist you in fighting the charges. Call (614) 987-0192 or send an email to schedule a consultation regarding your possessing criminal tools case.

What is Possessing Criminal Tools in Ohio?

Possessing criminal tools in Ohio covers a broad range of actions and instruments. Pursuant to R.C. 2923.14, no person shall possess or have under the person’s control any substance, device, instrument or article, with purpose to use it criminally. Moreover, each of the following constitutes prima facie evidence of criminal purpose:

• Possession or control of any dangerous ordnance, or the materials or parts for making dangerous ordnance, in the absence of circumstances indicating the dangerous ordnance, materials, or parts are intended for legitimate use;
• Possession or control of any substance, device, instrument, or article designed or specifically adapted for criminal use; and/or
• Possession or control of any substance, device, instrument, or article commonly used from criminal purposes, under circumstances indicating the item is intended for criminal use.

Penalties for Possessing Criminal Tools in Ohio

Possessing criminal tools is a 1st degree misdemeanor in Ohio, which carries six months in jail and a $1000 fine. However, if the circumstances indicate that the substance, device, instrument, or article involved in the offense was intended for use in the commission of a felony, possessing criminal tools in Ohio is a 5th degree felony. This level of offense carries 6 – 12 months in prison and a $2500 fine.

Frequently, this offense is charged in conjunction with several other offenses, including:

• Theft
• Burglary
• Criminal Damaging
• Breaking and Entering

Thus, what would have been a potential penalty of 6 – 12 months in prison can quickly balloon to a prison term of several years. Therefore, it is imperative that you retain an experienced and knowledgeable Columbus or Delaware, Ohio criminal defense attorney to represent you.

Secondary Consequences for a Possessing Criminal Tools Conviction in Ohio

In addition to a prison term and substantial fine, a breaking and entering conviction in Ohio has severe secondary consequences. These include having a permanent criminal record, inability to gain employment, apply for student loans, obtain housing, and acquire or maintain professional licenses.

Criminal Defense Attorney – Columbus and Delaware, Ohio

If you have been charged with possessing criminal tools in Columbus or Delaware, Ohio, it is crucial that you hire a criminal defense attorney immediately. Contact Johnson Legal, LLC and speak with an experienced Columbus and Delaware, Ohio criminal defense attorney. Attorney David Johnson will examine your case and assist you in putting forth the strongest defense possible. Call Johnson Legal, LLC at (614) 987-0192 or send an email to discuss your possessing criminal tools case. For further information, consult Johnson Legal, LLC’s Theft Offenses Blog.