Miami Shoplifting Attorney

For many people, shoplifting is seen as a minor crime. Taking an item or two can’t be that bad, right? The consequences for retailers are horrific, as they lose $95 billion a year in the United States alone. Miami is one of the top five cities affected by retail crime.

Because of this, stores are cracking down on shoplifting. They are finding ways to prevent retail theft and catch those who steal. Some stores are doing away with self-checkout lanes and putting expensive items behind lock and key.

Shoplifting can result in fines and jail time, based on the amount stolen. A Miami shoplifting attorney from Asilia Law Firm can help defend your case.

Types of Shoplifting and Consequences

There are two main categories of shoplifting: misdemeanor theft and felony theft. Misdemeanor theft refers to taking merchandise worth less than $100, It is considered petit theft in the second degree, which is a misdemeanor punishable by 60 days in jail. Taking merchandise worth between $100 and $300 is considered petit theft in the first degree, which is punishable by 364 days in jail.

Felony theft is when a person shoplifts items worth between $300 and $5,000. This crime is considered grand theft in the third degree, which is a felony punishable by up to five years in state prison.

Types of Shoplifting

Shoplifting isn’t just hiding items in a bag or purse. It can take on many forms such as the following:

• Concealment. This involves hiding items on one’s person, in clothing, bags, or strollers, to avoid detection while leaving the store.
• Price tag switching. Perpetrators may switch price tags or barcode labels to pay less for an item than its actual value.
• Self-checkout theft. Individuals may intentionally fail to scan all items or manipulate the self-checkout system to pay less than the actual value of the items.
• Shoplifters may use distractions, such as creating a commotion or engaging store employees in conversation, to steal items unnoticed.
• Bag or coat lining. Some shoplifters may line bags, purses, or coats with foil or other materials to avoid detection by store security systems.
• Grab and run. Perpetrators quickly grab items and leave the store without paying, relying on speed and surprise to avoid detection.
• Refund fraud. This involves returning stolen items for a refund or store credit without proof of purchase.
• Employee theft. Employees may steal merchandise using their knowledge of store procedures to avoid detection.

Contact Asilia Law Firm Today

Shoplifting has become more common as the cost of living skyrockets and people find it harder and harder to afford the everyday items they need.

The team at Asilia Law Firm will aggressively pursue the best outcome for our clients so that you can move on with your life. We will get your shoplifting charges dismissed and possibly even get a conviction removed from your record. Contact a Miami shoplifting attorney today to learn more. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (786) 420-3014.