What happens if you get caught shoplifting twice?

However, after the first conviction, if a defendant is caught shoplifting again, he or she can be charged with the more severe Retail Fraud 2nd Degree. Similarly, Retail Fraud 2nd Degree can be augmented to the felony Retail Fraud 1st Degree if the person has a prior retail fraud conviction.

What happens if you get caught stealing three times?

The first three times a person is convicted of petty theft it is a misdemeanor. If you have three or more priors for petty theft, the next one can be a felony or a misdemeanor. Infractions are punished by a fine. Misdemeanors are punished by up to one year in the county jail and/or up to a $1,000.00 fine.

What happens when you get caught shoplifting at Walmart for the second time?

If you get caught shoplifting again in another Walmart store, then you could be looking at jail time, a fine, or probation. The consequences for being caught a second time are often a lot more severe, and if you are caught a third time, you will be charged with a felony, not just a misdemeanor.

What happens when you get caught shoplifting?

Shoplifting is usually treated as a misdemeanor — unless you have some major prior convictions — punishable by a half-year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000.

What happens if you get caught shoplifting from a store?

Stealing from a store is a crime called shoplifting. If you are caught shoplifting under the age of 18, the store or merchant is allowed to detain you for a reasonable amount of time while they investigate your intent to steal. If they discover you have hidden product in your purse or backpack, they will likely call your parents and the police.

What happens when you get caught stealing from a store?

The security guard, after having registered your theft, might take you to an office and ask you for your ID. Your name will be added to a record so that they can recognize you the next time you try to steal something from that store.

How do I get a witness for a shoplifting investigation?

Make certain a witness is present. Once in the LP Office, make sure there is a witness present of the same sex as yourself. (If the detective is the same sex as the shoplifter a person of the opposite sex may be used as a witness) The witness will in most cases be whatever employee of the store is available.

What to do if you get a minor shoplifting citation?

Keep in mind that whether you receive a simple citation with a court date or are formally arrested, there is now a legal charge against you that you must address. Even if you walk away from the incident with a minor shoplifting ticket, securing legal counsel is crucial.