Accused of shoplifting? Call our firm for solid defense!
Shoplifting is one of the oldest theft crimes in existence. With today's stores having surveillance and special alarms rigged at almost every entry and exit, it's nearly impossible to steal goods from a store and get away with it. If you're facing shoplifting charges, we urge you to contact a Fairfield County criminal defense attorney from Bayer & Black, P.C.
With a former prosecutor on our team and over 40 years of combined experience, we know the criminal justice system inside and out and we know how to effectively fight all types of theft-related charges.
In Connecticut, shoplifting is covered under C.G.S. § 53a-119 (9). One is guilty of shoplifting when they intentionally take in possession any goods, wares or merchandise offered for sale by any store or other establishment with the intention of not paying for the items.
Connecticut Penalties for Shoplifting
- Shoplifting property worth $500 or less: Sixth degree larceny, Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to $500 in fines and up to 3 months in jail.
- Shoplifting property worth over $500: Fifth degree larceny, Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to $1,000 in fines, and up to 6 months in jail.
- Shoplifting property worth over $1,000: Fifth degree larceny, Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to $2,000 in fines, and up to 1 year in jail.
- Shoplifting property over $2,000: Third degree larceny, Class D felony, punishable by up to $5,000 in fines, and up to 5 years in prison.
Shoplifting property with a combined value of more than $10,000 is second degree larceny, and a Class C felony offense, punishable by up to $10,000 in fines and up to 10 years in prison. If the value of the goods shoplifted is over $20,000, the defendant faces up to $15,000 in fines and up to 20 years in prison.
Get the legal help you need. Contact Bayer & Black, P.C.!
At Bayer & Black, P.C., we know how to defend all levels of shoplifting charges. If this is your first offense, you may be eligible for an accelerated pretrial rehabilitation program. If you are accepted, you may have the opportunity to participate in a program under probation or supervision. Upon successful completion, your criminal charges may be dropped by the court.
If a diversion program is not available for your case, we may be able to negotiate a favorable plea bargain with the prosecutor, which usually means coming to an agreement involving reduced sentencing or lesser charges.
Contact our Fairfield County criminal defense firm to arrange a free case evaluation with one of our trusted attorneys!