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Whether property is unlawfully taken due to an honest mistake or a momentary
lapse of judgment, there are still legal grounds for criminal prosecution.
While shoplifting offenses may seem inconsequential, there is nothing
less serious than possible terms of imprisonment and a criminal record.
If you or a loved one has been charged with shoplifting, a skilled and
dedicated Olathe theft crime attorney from
Garretson & Toth, LLC is prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf.
The severity level of a shoplifting charge will depend on a few factors.
Misdemeanors
Shoplifting charges are often prosecuted as class A nonperson misdemeanors
because the value of the property taken is usually less than $1,000. Misdemeanor
offenses still result in unsavory criminal records and are punishable
by up to one year in a county jail.
Felonies
Tough prosecutors can quickly turn a minor shoplifting offense into a felony
charge for several reasons. If the property is valued at more than $1,000, felony
theft crime charges will be prosecuted. Shoplifting can also be enhanced to a felony if an
individual has stolen property from three separate establishments within
72 hours, or when they have two or more prior theft convictions on their record.
While our ultimate goal is to do everything in our power to have your charges dismissed, we also focus on ensuring that prosecutors do not enhance a shoplifting offense to a felony. This is only possible through thorough case analysis, investigation and meticulous preparation. There are a number of defense strategies that can be used to deflect shoplifting allegations and they can be strengthened immensely with swift action and legal consultation. Shoplifting charges can be defended and our firm has the experience and legal skills to do so effectively.
Contact a Johnson County shoplifting lawyer from Garretson & Toth, LLC today.