Dallas Shoplifting Defense Attorneys

Aggressive Legal Representation in Texas

Shoplifting is a serious crime that can result in severe penalties. If you have been charged with shoplifting, you need to take the matter seriously and consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At Scott H. Palmer, P.C., we have successfully defended countless clients against theft charges, including shoplifting. We understand the gravity of the situation and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome on your behalf.

Call (214) 891-3382 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting defense lawyers in Dallas.

What Is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting is a type of theft crime that involves taking merchandise from a store without paying for it. In Texas, shoplifting is generally charged as theft, which is defined as unlawfully appropriating property with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. The penalties for shoplifting depend on the value of the merchandise that was allegedly stolen.

Shoplifting Penalties in Texas

Shoplifting is a serious crime in Texas. The penalties for shoplifting depend on the value of the merchandise that was allegedly stolen. In general, the higher the value of the merchandise, the more severe the penalties.

The penalties for shoplifting in Texas are as follows:

• Less than $100: If the value of the merchandise is less than $100, shoplifting is charged as a Class C misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine of up to $500.
• $100 or more but less than $750: If the value of the merchandise is $100 or more but less than $750, shoplifting is charged as a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• $750 or more but less than $2,500: If the value of the merchandise is $750 or more but less than $2,500, shoplifting is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
• $2,500 or more but less than $30,000: If the value of the merchandise is $2,500 or more but less than $30,000, shoplifting is charged as a state jail felony, which is punishable by 180 days to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
• $30,000 or more but less than $150,000: If the value of the merchandise is $30,000 or more but less than $150,000, shoplifting is charged as a third-degree felony, which is punishable by two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• $150,000 or more but less than $300,000: If the value of the merchandise is $150,000 or more but less than $300,000, shoplifting is charged as a second-degree felony, which is punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• $300,000 or more: If the value of the merchandise is $300,000 or more, shoplifting is charged as a first-degree felony, which is punishable by five to 99 years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

In addition to these criminal penalties, shoplifters may also be required to pay civil fines and penalties. Many stores send civil demand letters to shoplifters, demanding that they pay a certain amount of money to cover the store's losses, as well as the cost of any security measures that were taken. If the shoplifter does not pay the amount demanded, the store may file a civil lawsuit against them.

Defending Against Shoplifting Charges

If you have been charged with shoplifting, you may be wondering what defenses are available to you. The good news is that there are several defenses that may be used to fight shoplifting charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the facts of your case and determine which defenses may be applicable.

Some common defenses to shoplifting charges include:

• Mistaken identity: If you were mistakenly identified as the person who shoplifted, you may be able to use this as a defense. For example, if you were wearing similar clothing to the person who shoplifted, the store's security cameras may have captured the incident, and you may be able to prove that you were not the person who committed the crime.
• False accusations: In some cases, people are falsely accused of shoplifting. This may occur if a store employee has a personal vendetta against you or if they made a mistake. If you can prove that you were falsely accused, you may be able to get the charges dropped.
• Entrapment: If you were entrapped into shoplifting, you may be able to use this as a defense. For example, if a store employee encouraged you to shoplift or if they set you up to shoplift, you may be able to argue that you would not have committed the crime if it were not for their actions.
• Insufficient evidence: The prosecution has the burden of proving that you committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is not enough evidence to meet this burden, you may be able to get the charges dropped.

These are just a few examples of the defenses that may be used to fight shoplifting charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the facts of your case and determine which defenses may be applicable.

How to Prevent Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a serious crime that can result in severe penalties. If you own a store, you should take steps to prevent shoplifting. There are several things that you can do to deter shoplifters and protect your merchandise.

Some tips for preventing shoplifting include:

• Train your employees: Make sure that your employees are trained to recognize the signs of shoplifting. They should know what to look for and what to do if they suspect that someone is shoplifting.
• Install security cameras: Install security cameras throughout your store. This will help you monitor the store and identify shoplifters.
• Use mirrors: Install mirrors in areas of your store that are difficult to see. This will help you see what is happening in these areas and deter shoplifters.
• Keep your store clean and organized: Keep your store clean and organized. This will make it easier for you to spot shoplifters.
• Use anti-shoplifting devices: Use anti-shoplifting devices on your merchandise. This will make it more difficult for shoplifters to steal your merchandise.
• Keep high-value items locked up: Keep high-value items locked up. This will make it more difficult for shoplifters to steal these items.
• Have a return policy: Have a return policy that requires customers to show a receipt when returning merchandise. This will help you prevent shoplifters from returning stolen merchandise.

These are just a few examples of the things that you can do to prevent shoplifting. If you own a store, you should consult with a security expert to determine what additional steps you can take to protect your merchandise.

Get the Legal Help You Need Today

If you have been charged with shoplifting, you need to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At Scott H. Palmer, P.C., we have successfully defended countless clients against theft charges, including shoplifting. We understand the gravity of the situation and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome on your behalf.

Call (214) 891-3382 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting defense lawyers in Dallas.