Shoplifting costs retailers over $13 billion dollars each year, and as more shoppers flock to the malls in the days leading up to Christmas, it’s no surprise that the holiday season is the busiest time of year for loss prevention teams across the nation.
According to the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention, over 27 million people in the United States (1 in 11) have shoplifted in the past, and 10 million have done so within the last five years.
“Retail theft is a crime we see far too often during the holiday season,” said Criminal Defense Attorney Avery Appelman. “People act without thinking, and all of a sudden they are facing hundred dollar fines for stealing a $5 item.”
Appelman added that many of the theft charges his firm handles are a result of an ill-conceived impulse.
“A lot of times people don’t go into the store with the intention of shoplifting,” said Appelman. “They simply see something they want and act rashly.”
What Are Thieves Taking?
According to a collection of data from 2011, shoplifters target high-priced foods, liquor and small electronics during their escapades. The top shoplifted items during the 2011 holiday season were.
1. Filet Mignon
2. Jameson Whiskey
3. Electric Tools
4. iPhones
5. Razor Blades
Penalties
Appelman said the penalties a shoplifter would face vary depending on the value of the stolen goods. In most cases, the item is valued at less than $500. In these instances, a shoplifter could face up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. This is considered a misdemeanor offense.
The penalties get more severe as the value of the stolen goods increases. In Minnesota, if the item is valued between $500 and $1,000, the shoplifter could face up to one year in jail and fines of up to $3,000. This type of crime is considered a gross misdemeanor.
Lastly, if the item is between $1,000 and $5,000 a person can be hit with a five-year jail sentence and fines of up to $10,000. Any theft of an item over $5,000 is considered a felony and carries even harsher penalties.
Related sources: NASP, AdWeek
