Shoplifting: while it may seem like no big deal at the time, the fact is, shoplifting is a very serious crime, and one that is mercilessly prosecuted in Pennsylvania. So what should you do if you are charged with retail theft? Your best move is to exercise your right to remain silent, and immediately contact the experienced, aggressive Allentown shoplifting attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim. When you put your future in our hands, we will work tirelessly on your behalf. From there, you simply need to cooperate with your legal team and trust us to secure the best possible outcomes under Pennsylvania law.
What Constitutes Retail Theft?
Naturally, walking out of the store without paying for an item is considered shoplifting. But plenty of other scenarios constitute retail theft, as well. For example, when someone substitutes the price tag of a lesser priced item on a more expensive one, the retailer is being cheated out of the fair value of the article. That is retail theft. Indicating that something is included in the clearance merchandise when that is not the case is another way to cheat retailers. This, too, is retail theft.
Legal Penalties Associated with Shoplifting
In addition to the damage to your reputation and good standing in the community, there are serious consequences for shoplifting in Pennsylvania. The penalties vary depending on your record, the value of the merchandise taken, and, of course, the quality of your legal representation. The scope of fines and incarceration are all quite daunting:
| Criminal History | Value of Stolen Merchandise | Range of Fines | Range of Incarceration |
|---|---|---|---|
| No criminal history | Under $150 | $0-$300 | 0-90 days |
| 1 prior conviction | Under $150 | $0-$5,000 | 0-730 days |
| 1 prior conviction | $150 or more | $0-$15,000 | Up to 7 years |
| 2 prior convictions | Any amount | $0-$15,000 | Up to 7 years |
| No criminal history | Taking a firearm or items exceeding $1,000 in value | $0-$15,000 | Up to 7 years |
Providing a Comprehensive Defense
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we will carefully examine every aspect of your alleged shoplifting scenario in order to construct the strongest defense possible. We may address your character, the return of the stolen property, your state of mind at the time of the purported crime, and other factors that relevant factors. Regardless of the circumstances, rest assured that your legal team will work relentlessly to ensure you a positive outcome. To discuss your situation, call our Allentown office to schedule a no cost, confidential consultation today.
