What Happens If You Steal from Walmart and Don’t Get Caught on the Way Out?

What Happens If You Steal from Walmart and Don’t Get Caught on the Way Out?

What Happens If You Steal from Walmart and Don’t Get Caught on the Way Out?

Just because you shoplifted and left a Walmart or another store without being caught doesn’t mean you are free from criminal repercussions. You could still be arrested for shoplifting even if you make it home uneventfully. If local police officers collect enough evidence of the theft, the prosecutor could press charges against you. Florida’s statute of limitations for shoplifting is five years, so do not get comfortable. Keep reading to learn more.

Can I Still be Arrested?

Even if you believe you have successfully shoplifted from Walmart, you could still be arrested for the crime. Investigators simply need to show proof that you stole from the store, either by providing security footage or speaking with employees or other witnesses. Walmart takes shoplifting very seriously. After all, the retail giant reports billions in inventory shrinkage every year, so it is highly likely that the company would seek legal action against perpetrators.

Walmart’s Anti-Theft Measures

Walmart’s loss prevention department uses a variety of sophisticated methods to catch shoplifters, like surveillance cameras and anti-theft tags, as well as security guards that patrol the store. If personnel discover missing inventory, they would likely review video recordings for footage of the crime. Once the company has you on video, the authorities step in. Police may send the images out through social media or use facial recognition software to identify you. You may be surprised when an acquaintance turns you in.

Stricter Penalties for Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a serious offense in Florida, and one you do not want on your record. As reported by NBC, a new anti-shoplifting bill went into law in 2024 to help thwart rising retail crime. The legislation imposes stricter shoplifting penalties for first-degree felons, including a 30-year sentence with two prior retail theft convictions. Judges could also hand down felony sentences if you are convicted of multiple shoplifting thefts within 120 days.

Other Consequences of Shoplifting

You might think that you didn’t really hurt anyone by stealing a few items from a major retailer. Believe it or not, there are other unintended consequences of shoplifting than merely getting caught. Theft is not a victimless crime. Consumers could face price increases to cover retailers’ losses. Businesses may also install stricter security measures that make shopping inconvenient. With billions of dollars lost to theft annually, some Walmart employees could even face layoffs.

If you have been charged with stealing from Walmart, contact the experienced theft defense attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm right away. Our team has handled many shoplifting cases, and we work hard to get the charges reduced or dismissed. Schedule a free consultation today and learn how we could help you, even if you left the store initially without getting caught.

What Happens If You Steal from Walmart and Don’t Get Caught on the Way Out?
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