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The State of Pennsylvania takes shoplifting seriously, making it essential to understand the implications of the charge. The act of shoplifting can be a simple mistake, an act of desperation to provide for one’s family, a cry for help, or a profit-driven act. Regardless of the underlying motivation, the legal consequences can be severe. If you or someone you care about is facing a shoplifting charge, our experienced defense attorneys in Harrisburg, PA, can help.
The Crime of Shoplifting
Pennsylvania defines shoplifting as theft from a retailer, and the charge comes under the retail theft law, which is distinct from other theft laws in the state. Retail theft refers to the act of carrying away or transferring retail merchandise from the point of sale to deprive the rightful owner of the merchandise, its full value, or its intended benefit. In other words, shoplifting can take a variety of forms, including all the following:
- Taking merchandise out of a store without paying for it or without paying the full retail price for it
- Manipulating a point-of-sale system to pay less than the full retail price or to receive discounts that the buyer isn’t entitled to
- Tampering with security devices on merchandise
- Transferring merchandise into alternate containers to pay less than the full retail price
- Changing out price tags or removing them altogether
Fines and Penalties
The fines and penalties faced for shoplifting convictions increase in direct proportion to the value of the goods shoplifted. It’s essential to note, however, that Pennsylvania courts can impose harsher penalties in instances where the accused is a repeat offender or was involved in another crime at the time of the offense.
Shoplifting charges in Pennsylvania break down as follows:
A first offense involving merchandise valued at less than $150 is a summary offense, which carries a potential jail sentence of up to 90 days and fines of up to $300.
A second offense involving merchandise that is valued at less than $150 is a second-degree misdemeanor, which carries a jail sentence of up to 2 years and fines of up to $5,000.
An offense involving merchandise valued at $150 or more, with no more than one prior offense, is a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying a sentence of up to five years in jail or prison and fines of up to $10,000.
An offense that is third or subsequent, involving merchandise valued at $1,000 or more, or that involves the theft of a firearm, is a third-degree felony, which carries a potential sentence of up to 7 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000.
Discuss Your Case with Our Dedicated Shoplifting Defense Lawyers Today
Our shoplifting defense lawyers in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, understand the seriousness of your situation and are well-prepared to advocate for an optimal case resolution on your behalf with determination. Learn more by contacting us online or calling (717) 232-5000 today.