Indiana Theft & Property Crime Defense Attorney

A theft charge does not have to define your future.

Being accused of theft, burglary, fraud, criminal conversion, or another property crime can put your job, reputation, professional license, and future at risk. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor shoplifting allegation or a serious felony burglary charge, the decisions you make now can have lasting consequences.


An accusation is not a conviction.


Every case deserves a careful review of the evidence, an honest assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case, and a strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome.


For more than three decades, I have represented clients charged with theft and property crimes throughout Central Indiana. My practice is built on strategic legal analysis, honest advice, and thorough preparation—not one-size-fits-all solutions.

Every Theft Case Begins With Questions

Before deciding how to defend your case, I want answers to the questions that often determine whether the State can prove its allegations.


For example:

  • Can the prosecution prove you intended to commit theft?
  • Is there reliable evidence identifying you?
  • Were the police investigation and search conducted legally?
  • Were your constitutional rights respected?
  • Are there witnesses or evidence that tell a different story?
  • What strategy best protects your future?


Many theft cases involve factual disputes, mistaken identity, questions of ownership, or disagreements about intent. Those issues often become the foundation of an effective defense.

Theft & Property Crimes I Defend

I represent clients charged with a wide range of theft and property offenses throughout Indiana, including:

  • Theft
  • Shoplifting (Retail Theft)
  • Criminal Conversion
  • Burglary
  • Fraud
  • Credit Card Fraud
  • Criminal Mischief
  • Property Damage
  • Receiving Stolen Property
  • Forgery
  • Check Deception

If your charge is not listed, contact my office. I have handled a wide variety of misdemeanor and felony property crime cases.

What's at Stake?

A conviction for a theft or property crime can affect far more than a criminal record.


Depending on the charge, the consequences may include:

  • Jail or prison
  • Significant fines
  • Restitution
  • Probation
  • Permanent felony record
  • Difficulty obtaining employment
  • Professional licensing consequences
  • Damage to your reputation
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens


The earlier you involve an experienced criminal defense attorney, the more opportunities there may be to protect your future.

Every Case Deserves an Individual Strategy

No two theft cases are alike.


Some cases should be challenged aggressively because the evidence is weak or constitutional issues exist. Others may call for negotiations designed to avoid a felony conviction, reduce charges, or keep a criminal record from creating unnecessary long-term consequences.


My responsibility is not to recommend the same strategy in every case.


My responsibility is to recommend the strategy that best serves the client's interests.


That begins with an honest assessment of the facts—not unrealistic promises or unnecessary delay.

Why Clients Choose Brian Johnson

Clients facing theft charges deserve more than someone who simply appears in court.


They deserve an attorney who will:


  • Carefully examine the evidence.
  • Identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
  • Challenge constitutional violations whenever appropriate.
  • Explain the law in straightforward language.
  • Develop a strategy based on the facts—not assumptions.
  • Prepare thoroughly for hearings and trial when necessary.


Every recommendation is made with one objective: Achieving the best possible outcome for the client.

Protect Your Future Before the Case Moves Forward

The prosecution begins building its case immediately.


The sooner an experienced criminal defense attorney becomes involved, the greater the opportunity to preserve evidence, protect your rights, and develop an effective defense strategy.


If you have been charged with theft, burglary, fraud, criminal conversion, or another property offense, contact Brian J Johnson Law LLC today.



Call (317) 718-7000 to speak directly with Brian Johnson about your case.