Identity theft is a very serious crime in the state of Wisconsin. It involves a person using someone else's personal information to gain access to financial accounts, take out loans, or purchase items without permission. People who are accused of identity theft can face severe penalties if they are found guilty in a court of law. However, not every case of alleged identity theft is the same, and it is important to understand the different scenarios in which a person can be charged with this crime.

Offenses Related to Identity Theft in Wisconsin

Identity theft is a broad term that encompasses a variety of offenses. These include:

Marijuana is increasingly viewed as a non-harmful drug, and it has also been found to have numerous medical benefits. Many states allow for the medical use of marijuana, and some states have even taken steps to decriminalize or legalize the drug entirely, allowing people to purchase and use marijuana for recreational purposes. However, marijuana continues to be illegal in Wisconsin, and anyone who is accused of possessing the drug, including those who traveled to nearby states such as Illinois or Michigan to purchase marijuana legally, may face criminal charges. If you have been arrested and charged with marijuana possession, you will need to understand the potential penalties you may face if you are convicted, as well as the defense strategies that may be available to you.

What Is Considered Marijuana Possession?

In Wisconsin, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. Possession of marijuana is defined as having any amount of the drug on your person or in your control. This means that if a joint or small amount of marijuana was found on your person, in your home, or in your vehicle, and you are aware of its presence, this could be considered possession. If you are accused of possessing large amounts of marijuana, you could be charged with possession with intent to manufacture, distribute, or deliver, and you may face increased penalties.

Wisconsin is a state that allows individuals to openly carry firearms. That is, certain types of weapons may be carried in plain view of others without the need to obtain a concealed carry weapon (CCW) license. However, as with any state laws, there are certain restrictions that apply to those who openly carry firearms. Violations of these laws could result in weapons charges. By understanding the applicable laws and regulations, those who engage in the open carry of weapons can avoid criminal charges and ensure they are meeting their legal requirements.

Who Can Open Carry?

In Wisconsin, individuals over the age of 18 are allowed to carry unconcealed firearms in public.  Licenses or permits are generally not required for a person to own or openly carry a firearm. However, some restrictions may apply, and certain people, such as convicted felons, are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.

In the United States, the "right to remain silent" is well-known. After hearing police officers in movies and TV shows inform people of this right whenever they are arrested, American citizens know that they have protections that will allow them to avoid incriminating themselves. However, people choose to waive this right far too often. Even if a person is just trying to be helpful and cooperative with police investigations, they can inadvertently provide information that could lead to criminal charges. A recent high-profile case illustrates the dangers that people face when interacting with police and the importance of being represented by an attorney.

Movie Star to Face Manslaughter Charges

In 2021, Alec Baldwin, a well-known actor, was involved in an incident during a movie shoot that resulted in the death of a member of the film's crew. According to reports, he was given a gun to use during a scene, but he was not informed that it was loaded with live rounds. When Baldwin fired the gun while filming, the film's cinematographer was killed, and the director was injured.

Operating a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance is a serious offense in Wisconsin. In many cases, arrests for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) occur because a person is suspected of drinking alcohol before getting behind the wheel. However, OWI charges may also apply if a person is accused of driving while under the influence of controlled substances or other drugs. If you have been arrested for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs, it is important to understand the laws that apply to your case, the potential consequences you may face, and the steps you can take to protect your rights.

Wisconsin Law on Drug-Related OWI Charges

In Wisconsin, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicant. In addition to alcohol, intoxicants may include controlled substances such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, or prescription drugs such as opioids. A combination of multiple substances may also cause a person to become intoxicated. For example, a person may drink a small amount of alcohol that would not normally cause them to be intoxicated, but if they have also used prescription drugs, over-the-counter cold and flu medicines, or marijuana, the combination of these substances may cause a higher level of impairment than they would experience when using the individual substances on their own.

The legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08 percent, which means that a person can usually have one or two drinks before they are considered to be intoxicated. However, any amount of a restricted controlled substance in a person's system can result in an OWI charge.