Many people may not think much of taking a pack of gum or a candy bar from a grocery store without paying for it. They cannot really be expected to face criminal charges, right?
Wrong. People can and do get in trouble for shoplifting all the time, even when the stolen item is worth very little. Some stores will aggressively prosecute their customers for shoplifting.
In Georgia, shoplifting is considered a form of theft, and the state has specific laws addressing it. The penalties for shoplifting in Georgia vary depending on the value of the items taken and other factors, such as prior offenses.
What the Law Says
Shoplifting laws for Georgia can be found in O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14. A person can be charged with theft by shoplifting when they intentionally appropriate merchandise for their own use without paying by doing any of the following:
- Concealing or taking possession of the merchandise of any store.
- Altering the price tag or other price markings on merchandise.
- Transferring the merchandise of any store from one container to another.
- Interchanging the label or price tag from one item to another.
- Intentionally causing the amount paid to be less than the merchant’s stated price for the merchandise.
Penalties for Shoplifting
If the value of the stolen items is $500 or less, it is generally considered a misdemeanor. Penalties may include a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 12 months in jail. If the value of the stolen items exceeds $500, the charge escalates to a felony. Penalties can include up to 10 years in prison.
For multiple shoplifting convictions, the penalties increase. A fourth or subsequent offense can be charged as a felony.
In addition to criminal charges, Georgia law allows retailers to pursue civil damages. They may seek restitution for the value of the stolen goods and may demand an additional penalty of up to $500.
Many people who shoplift are minors. These cases are handled through the juvenile court system, where penalties often include fines, community service, and mandatory programs rather than jail time.
First-time offenders, regardless of their age, may be granted probation instead of jail time. However, this typically includes strict conditions like regular check-ins, community service, and fines.
It’s also important to understand that a shoplifting conviction will remain on your criminal record. This can affect employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
Contact Our Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
Shoplifting is not always a minor crime. In cases where expensive goods are stolen, a person can face felony charges.
Anyone can be charged with a shoplifting crime. Teenagers can even be arrested and prosecuted for stealing candy. But do not worry, the Atlanta criminal defense lawyers at Ghanayem & Rayasam can defend you from the shoplifting charges you face. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible options for resolving your criminal matter. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call (404) 561-0202.