By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri Governor Bob Holden signed legislation into law Monday that toughens penalties identity theft.
That's when someone steals, for example, a credit card to buy things on another person's account.
The new law will base jail sentences on the value of items stolen. Victims will also be able to sue their suspected offender for damages, starting Aug. 28. They could recover up to five thousand dollars, or triple the actual damages, whichever is greater.
Current law only provides for maximums of six months in jail for a first offense, one year for a second offense and five years for subsequent offenses.
In addition, the new law makes it a felony to steal someone else's identity to commit election fraud.