DuPage County Mob Action Defense Attorney

Lawyers Representing Clients Charged With Looting in Cook County, Illinois

While crime is often a solitary activity, there are many cases in which people act in groups to break the law. In Illinois, this is considered mob action, and these types of criminal charges can result in serious consequences. Whether you are facing charges related to the intent to commit a crime with others or were arrested after being caught up in the activity of those around you, it is essential to have a skilled attorney on your side.

The experienced attorneys of Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. have been representing clients charged with criminal offenses for more than 25 years, and we can provide you with the defense you need to obtain the best outcome to your case.

Mob Action Laws in Illinois

Illinois law defines several types of mob action, including:

• Disturbing the public peace - This occurs when two or more people act together to knowingly or recklessly use force or violence that disturbs the peace. This is a Class 4 felony, which is punishable by one to three years in jail and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Assembling to commit a crime - This occurs when two or more people knowingly gather together with the intent to commit a felony or misdemeanor. This is a Class C misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,500.
• Mob justice - This occurs when two or more people gather with the intent to violently harm or damage the property of a person believed to be guilty of a crime. This is a Class C misdemeanor.

If a person injures someone or damages their property while committing mob action, they may be charged with a Class 4 felony. If a police officer orders someone to withdraw from mob action, and they refuse to do so, they may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Along with other punishments, a person convicted of mob action may also be required to perform community service for 30 to 120 hours.

The connected nature of the modern world has led some people to incite mob action through the use of electronic communication, including social media, websites, and email. In 2013, the state of Illinois passed a law which allows courts to impose an extended sentence for someone who uses electronic communication to attempt, solicit, or conspire to commit mob action.

Looting

One crime that is often related to mob action occurs when someone enters someone else's home or a commercial or industrial building that is unsecured because of a natural disaster or riot and removes the owner's property without their permission. Looting is a Class 4 felony, and an offender may be required to perform at least 100 hours of community service in addition to other punishments.

Contact a Lombard Criminal Defense Lawyer

Mob action can result in serious criminal consequences, and someone may be charged with this type of crime even if they never intended to break the law. If you are facing charges related to mob action, including looting or disturbing the public peace, the experienced, dedicated attorneys of Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. can help you understand your best options for defense. Contact an Oak Brook criminal defense lawyer by calling 630-472-9700 to arrange a free consultation. We serve clients in Wheaton, Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Western Springs, Clarendon Hills, Westmont, and throughout DuPage, Will, Kane, and Cook Counties.