Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

An ex-friend of mine recently stole my wedding ring, and engagement ring. Originally, I was going to press charges, but decided that I didn't want to have to put the stress on her family if she ended up going to jail. She had a court date, and was found guilty. However, she plans on appealing the ruling. Also, she has a history of drug addiction, and I believe she stole the rings to feed her habit. I have since found out that she's still using. If she really does appeal the ruling, can I change my mind, and still press charges?


Asked on 12/05/11, 8:41 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stephen Messutta

? If you didn't press charges, what was she found guilty of and what does that have to do with the theft of your property. You need to go to the police if you want to press charges; your having delayed doing so and whether the State's Attorney believes there is any evidence will be decisions they have to make. A lot may have to do with the time lag - there is a statute of limitations for crimes depending on how the State's Attorney wants to treat the situation.

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Answered on 12/06/11, 9:16 am


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