Conversion (theft) is generally the cause of action/claim for which a party whose property has been stolen may file a civil lawsuit to recover the stolen property or its value. Theft is also prosecuted as a crime, but the object of a criminal prosecution is generally to punish the wrongdoer, rather than to seek recovery of the lost property.
In Ohio, conversion is a civil cause of action that allows a person whose property has been wrongfully taken or retained to seek recovery of their property or its monetary value from the party responsible for the conversion. This is distinct from theft, which is a criminal offense prosecuted by the state. The aim of a criminal prosecution for theft is to punish the offender, rather than to compensate the victim. However, Ohio law does provide mechanisms for victims of crime, including theft, to seek restitution as part of the criminal process. Victims may also pursue civil remedies independently to recover their property or its value. It's important for victims to consider both the civil and criminal avenues to address the wrongdoing and to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and the appropriate steps to take in their specific situation.