On July 27, 2015, a jury found state Rep. Steve Kraus guilty of fifth-degree felony theft. Under Ohio law, Kraus was automatically removed from his seat in the Ohio House upon his conviction.

Kraus, who also works as an auctioneer and real estate agent, was accused of removing items from the home of an elderly woman. He asserted he had been granted permission to enter the home and it was his fiduciary duty to remove the items.

However, the woman’s real estate agent stated Kraus was only given permission to enter the garage to photograph an antique car.

Kraus faces up to 12 months in prison. The sentencing will be held on August 21.

Photo of Steve Kraus courtesy of the Ohio House of Representatives website.