Shoplifting Chandler AZ

Shoplifting, also known as theft, is a crime that involves stealing merchandise from a retail store. The severity of the charges and penalties for shoplifting can vary depending on the value of the items stolen. In Arizona, shoplifting is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of the property stolen.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Shoplifting

In Arizona, shoplifting is classified as a misdemeanor if the value of the property stolen is less than $1,000. Misdemeanor shoplifting is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

If the value of the property stolen is $1,000 or more, shoplifting is classified as a felony. Felony shoplifting is punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000.

Defenses to Shoplifting

There are several defenses that can be raised in a shoplifting case. These defenses include:

Lack of intent: The defendant did not intend to steal the merchandise. For example, the defendant may have accidentally picked up an item and forgotten to pay for it.

Duress or coercion: The defendant was forced to steal the merchandise by someone else.

Mistake of fact: The defendant mistakenly believed that the merchandise was abandoned or that they had a right to take it.

Entrapment: The defendant was induced to commit the crime by law enforcement officers.

Penalties for Shoplifting

The penalties for shoplifting can vary depending on the severity of the crime. The following are some of the potential penalties for shoplifting in Arizona:

Jail time: Up to six months for misdemeanor shoplifting and up to three years for felony shoplifting

Fines: Up to $2,500 for misdemeanor shoplifting and up to $150,000 for felony shoplifting

Restitution: The defendant may be ordered to pay restitution to the store for the value of the stolen merchandise

Probation: The defendant may be placed on probation for a period of time

Community service: The defendant may be required to perform community service

Expungement of Shoplifting Conviction

In some cases, it may be possible to have a shoplifting conviction expunged from your criminal record. This means that the conviction will be removed from your public record and you will not have to disclose it on job applications or other forms.

To be eligible for expungement, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must have completed your sentence, including any probation or community service
• You must not have any other felony convictions
• You must not have any outstanding warrants or charges
• You must not be a registered sex offender

If you meet these requirements, you can file a petition with the court to have your shoplifting conviction expunged.

Importance of Legal Representation

Shoplifting is a serious crime that can have lasting consequences. If you are charged with shoplifting, it is important to contact experienced criminal defense attorney, W. Michael Atkins, who can help you understand your rights and options.