IDENTITY THEFT DEFENSE
PRACTICE AREAS
LOUISIANA IDENTITY THEFT DEFENSE LAWYER
Aggressive Defense Against Identity Theft Charges in Shreveport, Bossier City, & Beyond
Being accused of identity theft is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly. These serious allegations can impact your reputation, freedom, and future opportunities. In situations like this, a trusted North Louisiana identity theft defense lawyer like Michael J. Vergis can help you fight back with a strong legal defense.
At The Law Offices of Michael J. Vergis, we defend individuals in Shreveport, Bossier City, and across North Louisiana who are facing criminal charges for white collar crimes.
Offenses like identity fraud, wire fraud, and computer crimes carry severe penalties under Louisiana and federal law, including heavy fines, years of jail time, and a felony criminal record. With stakes this high, having a trustworthy criminal defense attorney on your side is essential.
If you’ve been accused of using someone else’s personal information for financial gain, our law firm is ready to defend your rights. Call (318) 698-3724 or contact us online for a free consultation today.
What is Identity Theft Under Louisiana Law?
Louisiana Revised Statutes §14:67.16 defines identity theft as knowingly using another person’s personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or phone numbers, without consent and with intent to commit fraud or gain something of value.
Identity thieves typically try to obtain credit, access financial accounts, or secure goods, services, or employment they could not get otherwise. In identity theft cases, prosecutors must prove intent, which means the suspect must have planned to use the stolen data for financial gain or to defraud the victim.
This offense is classified as a white-collar crime and is frequently prosecuted at the state and federal levels. A conviction can result in harsh criminal penalties, including prison time, expensive fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Common Identity Theft Allegations We Defend Against
Our Shreveport criminal defense firm has successfully defended clients facing various identity theft charges. Below are some of the most frequent allegations we fight:
- Unauthorized use of debit or credit card information
- Accessing or opening bank accounts with someone else’s information
- Using another person’s Social Security number or driver’s license
- Online or digital identity fraud (phishing, data breaches)
- Employment-related fraud (false identity on job applications)
- Impersonating another person to avoid legal consequences
Is Identity Theft a Felony or Misdemeanor in Louisiana?
Under Louisiana law, identity theft is a felony charge, and the penalties are based on the value of the fraud.
As the total value of the fraud increases, the severity of the criminal penalties also increases. Even if the fraud was carried out over multiple transactions, Louisiana’s aggregation rule allows prosecutors to combine the value of each act to determine the charge.
What is the Penalty for Identity Theft in Louisiana?
The penalties for identity theft in Louisiana can be severe, especially if the crime involved significant financial gain or targeted vulnerable individuals. A conviction can lead to:
- Jail or prison time
Depending on the amount involved, a person accused of identity fraud could face jail time with or without hard labor. More serious identity theft cases may lead to extended sentences in a state facility. - Fines, restitution, and probation
In addition to incarceration, courts may order fines, restitution to the victim, and court-ordered probation. These penalties are common in white collar crimes and can add up quickly, creating long-term financial challenges. - Harsher penalties for repeat offenders or crimes against the elderly
If a suspect has prior convictions or the alleged crime involved an elderly victim, criminal penalties may be even more severe. Louisiana law takes these aggravating factors seriously. - Federal charges
Identity theft connected to large-scale internet crimes or involving financial institutions can be prosecuted under federal law.
If you’re fighting identity theft charges, our Shreveport white collar crime attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a strong, effective defense to protect your rights.
Federal Identity Theft Charges
In some cases, identity theft is charged at the federal level under 18 U.S. Code § 1028, which makes it a crime to knowingly use, create, or possess false identification documents or stolen personal information.
Federal authorities often take over when the alleged offense involves interstate communication or includes the use of stolen government-issued IDs like Social Security cards or federal benefits.
Federal charges are also common in cases involving organized fraud schemes, money laundering, or widespread internet crimes. These cases are tried in federal court, where sentencing guidelines can be more severe.
How Long Can You Go to Jail for Identity Theft?
The amount of jail time you could face for identity theft depends on whether the charge is brought under state or federal law.
In Louisiana, a conviction can lead to anywhere from 6 months to 10 years of incarceration, depending on the value of the fraud and whether it’s a first or repeat offense.
If the case is prosecuted at the federal level, the penalties can include prison sentences ranging from 5 to 30 years, especially when connected to other crimes like bank fraud, computer crimes, or money laundering.
Louisiana Aggregation Rule
Under Louisiana’s aggregation rule, multiple acts of identity theft can be combined to calculate the total value of the fraud. Even if each individual act involved a small amount, the criminal justice system may treat the case as a more serious felony if the combined amount is over $1,000. The total value determines which penalties apply.
If you’re facing multiple identity theft charges, having a Louisiana fraud lawyer who understands the impact of the aggregation rule is key to building a strong defense and protecting your future.
Potential Defense Strategies for Louisiana Identity Theft Charges
At The Law Office of Michael J. Vergis, our Shreveport theft defense lawyers use several strategies to challenge identity theft charges in Louisiana, including:
- Questioning intent or knowledge
The prosecution must prove that you knowingly used someone else’s personal information to commit fraud or gain something of value. Without clear intent, the case may fall apart. - Arguing mistaken identity or wrongful accusation
These cases often stem from shared devices, errors in digital evidence, or false assumptions about who committed the offense. Our attorneys question the evidence and argue the prosecution’s case. - Challenging unlawful searches and seizures
If police accessed your phone, computer, or online accounts without a valid warrant, the evidence may be inadmissible in court. - Showing victim consent or authorization
If the alleged victim permitted you to use their information, this weakens the prosecution’s case. - Using digital forensics and expert analysis
Our identity theft attorneys consult with forensic experts to examine electronic records and identify weaknesses in the state’s investigation.
How the Shreveport Identity Theft Attorneys at The Law Office of Michael J. Vergis Can Help
With more than 25 years of experience defending clients across North Louisiana, we are prepared to defend you against identity theft charges.
We carefully investigate each case, review the evidence, and build a defense strategy that fits your specific situation. Our law firm has a strong track record of achieving reduced charges, case dismissals, and favorable plea agreements in white collar crime cases, including identity fraud, wire fraud, and computer crimes.
With in-depth knowledge of Louisiana law and federal court procedures, we’re fully equipped to defend your rights and pursue the best possible outcome, no matter how serious the accusation.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation With an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you’ve been accused of identity theft, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. North Louisiana identity theft defense lawyer Michael J. Vergis offers confidential, no-obligation case reviews to discuss your situation and explain your legal options.
Our team provides judgment-free, aggressive legal representation to protect your rights and fight for your future. Call The Law Office of Michael J. Vergis at (318) 698-3724 or contact us online to request a free consultation today.
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