Shoplifting is one of the most common crimes across the country, including Pennsylvania. Every day in PA, someone somewhere is taking something that doesn’t belong to them. Retail theft is taking something from a store that doesn’t belong to you without paying for it. In some instances, people steal because of financial problems, while others do it simply because they can.
Shoplifting is a serious offense, and it can have serious consequences for your future. No matter how small the item you shoplift, you could end up facing jail time. In Pennsylvania, shoplifting can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. While a misdemeanor charge is less serious than a felony, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are three possible misdemeanor shoplifting charges, and each charge carries the possibility of jail time.
- Misdemeanor 3 Shoplifting – when the value of the stolen goods is less than $50. A conviction of Misdemeanor 3 Shoplifting carries a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail.
- Misdemeanor 2 Shoplifting – when the value of the stolen goods is over $50. A conviction of Misdemeanor 2 Shoplifting can result in up to three years in jail.
- Misdemeanor 1 Shoplifting – when the value of the stolen goods is more than $200. A conviction of Misdemeanor Shoplifting 1 carries a maximum penalty of five years in jail.
- Felony Retail Theft – when the value of the stolen goods is more than $2,000. A conviction of Felony Retail Theft carries a maximum penalty of seven years in jail.
If you’ve been arrested for shoplifting, make your first phone call for bail bonds in Allentown, PA, to Liberty Bail Bonds. We’ll get you released and back home with your family while you prepare for the next phase in your case.
