Shoplifting is a common offense, and it occurs for various reasons. Because shoplifting is so common, you may not take it as seriously as some other crimes. While shoplifting may seem like a small offense, it can carry some serious penalties, including jail time. If you or a loved one has been caught shoplifting, you will want to retain the help of a dedicated criminal defense attorney. Read on for more information about shoplifting penalties in New Jersey and what to do if you are charged.
What Constitutes Shoplifting?
Some of the things that count as shoplifting include purposely concealing or taking any merchandise sold by a store, or purposely altering, transferring, or removing a price tag in order to purchase the merchandise for less.
Shoplifting Offenses and Penalties:
When it comes to shoplifting, the higher the value of the items stolen from the store, the higher the penalties will be. Additionally, your penalties may depend upon prior charges. The penalties you may face for shoplifting in New Jersey include:
- Shoplifting merchandise with a total combined value of $200-$500 is a crime of the 4th degree and it comes with 18 months in jail and fines up to $10,000.
- Shoplifting merchandise valued between $500 and $75,000 is a 3rd-degree charge and comes with jail time of 3-5 years and fines not exceeding $15,000.
- Shoplifting merchandise valued over $75,000 is a crime of the second degree and comes with jail time of 5-10 years and fines not exceeding $150,000.
Under most circumstances, if you are caught shoplifting any item that has a dollar value of less than $200, you will most likely face what is known as a disorderly person’s offense. A disorderly person’s offense is a misdemeanor, and though not as damaging as a felony, a misdemeanor will still stay on your record.
What Do I Do if I Am Caught Shoplifting?
If you are caught shoplifting, you will want to retain the services of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Reach out to our firm right away to discuss your case. We will explore all legal avenues and possible defenses. We understand that people make mistakes and we will act as your advocate throughout all your criminal defense matters.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves on our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
