Title: Shoplifting Law | Justia
Headings: Shoplifting
Shoplifting
Acts Constituting Shoplifting
Detention of Shoplifters
Punishment for Shoplifting
Shoplifting Resources

Content: Instead, the detention and questioning of suspects must be reasonable. This will vary from case to case, but most courts have found that the use of excessive force in restraining a suspect is not reasonable, nor is detaining someone until he or she is willing to sign a confession or waiver of liability. Punishment for Shoplifting
In some states, shoplifting is charged as a lesser form of larceny, often known as “petty theft.” Other states have enacted specific statutes to deal with shoplifting crimes. Your state’s approach will be set forth in the state or local penal code. Typically, the exact punishment imposed will vary depending on the items the shoplifter attempted to steal. For instance, a perpetrator may only receive a fine for smaller thefts, but attempts to steal larger items could result in being charged with felony larceny and possible jail time. Additionally, certain aggravating factors can increase the punishment that a defendant faces. If there is a history of shoplifting charges, the defendant may be punished more harshly. In California, for example, repeated convictions for shoplifting can lead to a felony charge, as opposed to a misdemeanor, and may result in jail time.