Title: Shoplifting Laws and Punishments | ExpertLaw
Headings: Shoplifting Laws and Punishments
Shoplifting Laws and Punishments
Contents
What is Shoplifting
When Can Shoplifting Result in More Serious Charges
Detention by a Store for Shoplifting
What is the Punishment for Shoplifting
Criminal Penalties
Civil Penalties
Civil Demand Laws
Trespass Bans
Retail Theft Databases
Defenses to Shoplifting Charges
What Should You Do if Charged With Shoplifting

Content: If the shoplifter intends to resell the goods they are stealing from a merchant, many states allow for a more serious criminal charge, often a felony charge. Organized Shoplifting: If the shoplifter operates as part of a group of shoplifters, particularly if the group engages in shoplifting on more than one occasion or in more than one store, many states allow for a more serious charge. Removal of Security Devices: Some states provide for more serious penalties when a shoplifter removes or deactivates a security or theft-prevention device as part of a theft attempt. Possession of Shoplifting Tools: The possession of a tool that can be used to remove a security tag from merchandise, to shield merchandise from security scanners, or even a tool as simple as a knife or scissors that is used to open packaging or remove a price tag, may in some states result in a more serious charge, even a commercial shoplifting charge. An adult who is caught shoplifting with a minor accomplice may face a more serious penalty. If arrested, an adult who is caring for minor children may find that the children are taken into custody by protective services. If a prosecutor believes that an ordinary shoplifting charge is not sufficient, states may also have other statutes under which charges may be filed.