Tampering with Records Ohio
When a person with no privilege to do so, and with the purpose to defraud another falsifies, destroys, removes, conceals, alter, or defaces writing, computer software, data, or a record, or transmits that false record knowing it has been tampered with, they may be charged with Tampering with Records (O.R.C. 2913.42) by Cleveland prosecutors.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Tampering with Records in OH
Depending on the circumstances, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. For instance, altering a privately held document that is not computer software, is typically charged as a First Degree Misdemeanor, which carries a potential six-month sentence.
Altering a will, on the other hand, is a Fifth-Degree Felony, which can put you away for a year.
When the material tampered with is a software program or data, Tampering with Records may be charged as a First-Degree Misdemeanor or graded to the value of loss that the tampering caused.
If there are financial losses, you’ll be charged with a Fifth, Fourth, or Third-Degree Felony, which can result in penalties with sentences ranging from six months to five years.
When the material that is tampered with belongs to a government agency, it’s a Third-Degree Felony charge, with a five-year maximum sentence.
Tampering with records is often charged in connection to other crimes, so it’s vital that you find legal help that can fully understand the scope of the situation and fight back against the prosecution’s charges.
If you’ve been arrested for tampering with records, call Patituce & Associates today at (440) 771-1175 and speak to an experienced Cleveland defense attorney for free.
