In the State of Illinois, fake IDs represent serious criminal offenses. These fraudulent identification cards misrepresent important information, such as a person’s name, age, or similar details. Depending on the nature of the offense, actions involving fake IDs can be charged as misdemeanor or felony offenses.
Advertising or Promoting Fake IDs
Illinois law at 15 ILCS 335/14B makes it unlawful to advertise or distribute information that promotes the sale, gift, or furnishing of fake IDs.
Any person who violates this rule is typically charged with a Class A misdemeanor. Upon conviction for this charge, the penalties can include 364 days in jail and $2,500 in criminal fines.
In addition, the Secretary of State may request a restraining order against the offender to prevent further advertisement or promotion of fake IDs.
Using or Displaying Fake IDs
Section 14B also makes it illegal to knowingly possess, display, or otherwise use a fake ID. Any person who violates this rule is typically charged with a Class 4 felony. Upon conviction for this charge, the penalties can include one to three years in prison and $25,000 in criminal fines.
On top of the statutory penalties above, Section 14B creates several mandatory minimum levels of punishment. More specifically, an offender must pay at least $500 in criminal fines or complete at least 50 hours of community service.
Other Crimes Involving Fake IDs
In addition to the fake ID crimes described above, Section 14B also prohibits various other activities involving fraudulent identification. More specifically, this section makes it unlawful to knowingly:
- Possess or display a fake ID for the purpose of establishing an account, credit, or similar service from a bank or retail business;
- Possess a fake ID with the intent to commit theft, fraud, or similar deception;
- Possess a fake ID with the intent to commit any crime that carries a sentence of at least one year in jail or prison;
- Possess a fake ID and another document that is capable of defrauding another person;
- Possess a fake ID with the intent to obtain some other form of identification;
- Possess any implement or device that is capable of producing IDs; or
- Duplicate, manufacture, sell, or transfer any fake ID.
Any person who violates the rules in the list above is normally charged with a Class 3 felony. Upon conviction for this charge, the penalties can include two to five years in prison and $25,000 in criminal fines.
On the second or subsequent violation, however, the charge becomes a Class 2 felony. Upon conviction for this charge, the penalties can include three to seven years in prison and $25,000 in criminal fines.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all charges are serious. A sound strategy and an aggressive defense are essential for a positive outcome. To protect your rights in such situations, it is highly advisable to retain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Prior Law Firm in Bloomington, Illinois, has proven experience in matters of criminal defense. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free consultation. You can reach The Prior Law Firm by phone at (309) 827-4300, email at johnprior@thepriorlawfirm.com or by completing an online form.