Shoplifting Attorney in Olathe

Johnson County Theft Crime Lawyer

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 shoplifting lawyer from Garretson & Toth, LLC is prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf.

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What Is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting involves taking property, items, or other merchandise from a store without rendering payment and without the authorization of the retail owner. In Kansas, shoplifting does not have a separate statute but is rather considered general theft. The penalties and severity of the charge will differ depending on the value of goods taken.

If you are facing shoplifting charges in Olathe or beyond, contact our firm today.

Is Shoplifting a Felony or Misdemeanor? 

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.

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.