Illinois Insurance State Practice Exam

What classification does a Producer face if they steal less than $150.00 twice?

1. Class 1 Felony

2. Class 2 Felony

3. Class 3 or 4 Felony

4. Misdemeanor

The correct answer is: Class 3 or 4 Felony

When discussing the classification of theft in Illinois, it's important to recognize how the amount stolen and the number of offenses impact the legal consequences. In Illinois, theft is classified based on the value of the property involved and other circumstances. If a producer steals less than $150.00 on two separate occasions, it can be classified as a Class 3 or Class 4 felony. The distinction comes from the cumulative nature of the offenses and the relatively low monetary threshold. A theft of less than $150.00 is usually classified as a misdemeanor for a single incident, but committing theft multiple times can elevate the seriousness of the charges. In this context, individuals who have committed multiple small thefts may face more severe penalties as a deterrent against repetitive criminal behavior, reflecting a legal perspective that encourages accountability and seriousness in addressing theft offenses. Thus, the correct classification acknowledges the pattern of behavior rather than just the individual theft amounts.