Lifting, swiping, taking a five-finger discount—the terms people use to describe shoplifting almost make it seem like a game. In fact, for some folks who do it, the goal is the thrill, not actually taking the items.
Retailers take shoplifting very seriously. This crime, also known as retail theft, is responsible for around $35 million in losses across the United States every single day. The result is that most retailers take a hardline approach to retail theft, pushing prosecution.
Whether shoplifting allegations are the result of a misunderstanding, an honest mistake, a false allegation, or an act of bad judgment, the consequences can be severe. If you are facing theft charges, an Avalon Park shoplifting lawyer can help you deal with the challenges of the legal system and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
The term shoplifting describes the nature of theft and involves taking merchandise from a store with the intent to deprive the retailer of its value permanently. While it may not seem like as serious of a crime as other types of theft, the law treats it the same. Shoplifting happens in many ways, including:
Retailers in Avalon Park, including shops in the bustling downtown area and at local shopping centers, take theft seriously. Many stores have surveillance cameras and loss prevention officers trained to detect suspicious behavior. They might even seem to ignore shoplifting behavior as they wait for your total amount sold to cross thresholds that elevate the charges.
However, mistakes happen, and false accusations are not uncommon. Our Avalon shoplifting defense attorney can challenge the evidence against you and help build a strong case in your favor.
Florida law categorizes shoplifting penalties based on the value of the stolen items. Petty theft includes items under $750 in value. If the item or items are worth less than a total of $100, then the crime is a second-degree misdemeanor. If the value is between $100 and $750, then it is a first-degree misdemeanor. The potential punishments for petty theft include:
Grand theft includes items valued over $750. These crimes may be charged as felonies. Potential punishments for grand theft include:
The consequences do not stop with criminal charges, as retailers may also file civil suits, seeking financial restitution. The social consequences can also be substantial. A conviction can also affect employment opportunities, housing applications, and even immigration status.
An Avalon Park shoplifting lawyer will evaluate your case and determine the best defense strategy. Some common defenses against shoplifting charges include lack of intent, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, or violation of rights. Shoplifting requires intent, and if you mistakenly left a store without paying or were distracted, this could be a valid defense.
In crowded stores or shopping plazas, loss prevention officers might wrongly accuse someone based on security footage or witness statements. The prosecution must also prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed theft. If there is weak or inconclusive evidence, your attorney may push for a case dismissal.
If store security or law enforcement detained you improperly, searched you without cause, or failed to read your rights, your lawyer may challenge the legality of your arrest.
Each case is unique, and the best defense depends on the circumstances surrounding your arrest. Depending on the nature of the proof against you and your criminal history, an attorney may suggest a plea bargain for a lower offense.
Just because you left the store without getting stopped for stealing doesn’t mean you can’t be charged with shoplifting. A court summons for shoplifting is the same as an arrest and you will need to show up. They may have identified you through video evidence or witness accounts.
The potential consequences of a shoplifting conviction can last a lifetime, so it is vital to get help from an Avalon Park shoplifting lawyer. The team at The Umansky Law Firm can help you understand your rights and build a strong defense. Schedule a confidential consultation to learn more.
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