Retailers across the county spend millions on security. Whether through expensive security cameras, or on security guards, the country’s shopping centers and retail establishments take shoplifting seriously. When items are taken from a store without being paid for, the overall bottom line of the store suffers. Shoplifting is a criminal offense, and can have lasting effects on your criminal record if not properly defended. While difficult to defend if there is an actual surveillance tape, there are effective defense strategies for shoplifting charges that can be put to work for you.
Shoplifting in Florida is referred to as retail theft. It can happen in any of the following circumstances:
- Removing merchandise from a store without paying.
● Changing a price tag.
● Changing the container or merchandise packaging.
While some people believe shoplifting is a minor crime without serious consequences, the penalties can actually be quite harsh. Depending on the value or amount of merchandise taken, you can face a fine of as little as $500, but can also be required to pay a fine well into the tens of thousands of dollars. The jail time can also be significant, ranging from just a few months to up to a whopping 30 years! Don’t take these charges lightly, call a qualified criminal defense attorney for help.
If you have been charged with shoplifting, call a competent criminal defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast for help. We offer aggressive representation for criminal charges. Call us today to schedule an appointment.