Shoplifting

Criminal Defense & Theft Crimes Lawyer in Brooklyn

Shoplifting is a form of larceny or theft that specifically involves taking property from a storefront or merchant. Many incidents of shoplifting amount to petit larceny, as items taken are generally valued under $1,000. This criminal violation can still be charged as a class A misdemeanor, carrying a potential penalty of $1,000 fine and up to 365 days in state prison, though.

If you have been accused of shoplifting to any degree, then you need to seek criminal defense representation as soon as you can. Even being accused of stealing a few food items from a grocery store can lead to immense penalties. Call 718.395.2067 to connect with the Law Offices of Lowell J. Sidney and our Brooklyn criminal defense attorney and schedule a free consultation to learn more about what you can do to protect your rights.

Additional Penalties in Shoplifting Cases

As with most any criminal violation in New York’s criminal statutes, shoplifting will be penalized with escalating sentencing punishments depending on the severity of the crime. It is even possible to be charged with a class B felony for shoplifting an item or items with a total value greater than $1 million. In such a situation, the punishments could include 25 years of imprisonment and a fine likely reaching at least $5,000. Shoplifting penalties are somewhat unique, though, in that the accused can be further penalized with restitutions and liability in resulting civil cases.

If you are convicted of shoplifting in New York, then you could be further penalized:

• You may need to pay between $75 and $500 in restitutions to match the value of the stolen merchandise. This amount is calculated by multiplying the value of the merchandise by 5.
• You may be sued by the merchant for an amount up to $1,500 if the merchandise is not returned in favorable, usable, or sellable condition.

It is worth noting that the parents or guardians of minors who shoplift can be sued by merchants instead. The best way to combat a merchant’s lawsuit in civil court is to protect your rights in criminal court. If there is no conviction, then it will be difficult for them to build a viable claim in civil court.

Secure Representation for Your Shoplifting Defense Case Now

Has a merchant accused you of stealing from their store? Get our Brooklyn theft crimes lawyer on your side and start building your defense. Using our extensive criminal defense experience, we can craft a strategy unique to your case. We know how to secure and use evidence to your advantage, like closed-circuit security camera footage that allegedly shows the act.

Learn more about our legal services by contacting us at 718.395.2067 now.