If a store has recorded proof of someone taking an item, has identified them on surveillance video, and has their name, they bring charges weeks, months, and up to three years later for a crime that was previously committed.
If you feel that you may be or are being charged with a theft crime, call a criminal defense lawyer immediately.
An experienced attorney has handled hundreds of shoplifting cases and is able to strategically negotiate to get the charges reduced or dismissed. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case. Contact Us Related Articles:. Shoplifting Situations In many cases, a place of business will wait until the shoplifter has left the front door s before approaching them.
Leaving the Store Without Being Caught Even if you successfully shoplift and exit the store without being caught, you can still be arrested. Social Media to the Rescue More often businesses are leveraging the power of social media to nab shoplifters. Facial Recognition Technology for Shoplifting If a store feels like they see someone suspicious or they recognize the person from previous situations where there was trouble, they may take the time to look at their security footage. Worried About Punishment?
They cannot force you to sign anything. Do not answer that question or argue with them. Just repeat your request for a lawyer. You have no obligation to tell them why. If they keep you in an office refusing to let you leave, renew your demand for a lawyer. Thus if they refuse to release you, continue to demand they let you do and and continue to demand a lawyer. They will lie and tell you the evidence against you is conclusive and you might as well admit to shoplifting.
This is a trick. Therefore, take this warning to heart. Because if you get caught in the store again, you will get arrested for criminal trespass and face a jail sentence. The police officer will not likely ask you what happened. But if he does you should refuse to answer and ask for a lawyer. The ticket will order you to appear in court at a later date. So how should you react to a shoplifting accusation or charge? Theft is a broad area of both civil and criminal law, and the severity of the crime or infraction largely depends on factors such as the value of the item s you are charged with stealing and the location from which they were allegedly stolen.
You can prevent shoplifting by taking some simple steps in the following areas: Store layout and design Staff education and training Business policy and procedure Store layout and design Make the layout of your store as open as possible, with good visibility between aisles or areas. Keep shelves tidy and goods neatly stacked. Consider using surveillance mirrors so that staff can monitor awkward or hidden areas.
If appropriate, consider having in store security staff. Where possible, lock expensive and easily portable goods in cabinets. Stack goods tightly on your shelves, so that removal takes longer. Limit the entry and exit points to your store. Clearly display signs that state that police will be called if anyone is caught stealing regardless of the excuse. Clearly display signs explaining your bag checking policy. Limit access to keys for locked cabinets. Staff education and training Ensure your staff members understand: That the value of the goods stolen can never outweigh the value of the health and well being of the staff.
The store policy on both bag checks and stealing. What you, or store management, expect of them under these policies. The procedures you want them to follow if they suspect someone has stolen property.
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