Arizona is a state known to be tough on crime, no matter how big or small. Shoplifting is no exception. If you are charged with shoplifting, you will not only be facing criminal penalties, but also may be sued by the merchant to recover damages for the items.
What is shoplifting in Arizona?
Arizona law defines shoplifting as any act that removes a good from the store without paying the purchase price, by paying less than the intended price, by switching or altering price tags, or concealing merchandise with the intent to deprive the store of goods. The merchant that believes their goods to be shoplifted can detail the suspected shoplifter for a reasonable amount of time while they determine whether or not a crime has occurred.
How can I be charged with shoplifting?
Shoplifting will be charged depending on the value of the goods, the type of product, and the criminal past of the suspected shoplifter. Shoplifting in Arizona can result in a criminal charge of:
- Class 1 misdemeanor: Up to 6 months in jail, a fine of $2,500, and 3 years of probation
- Class 6 felony: Up to 18 months in jail, fines of up to $150,000, and 3 years’ probation
- Class 5 felony: 9 months to 2 years of jail time, $150,000 fine, and 3 years of probation
- Class 4 felony: 18 months to 3 years in jail, $150,000 fine, and 3 years of probation
Depending on the details of the shoplifting, the penalties will differ. For example, if you are a repeat offender of robbery, burglary, or other forms of shoplifting, you may be charged with a Class 4 felony. If you shoplift a firearm, even if the value is below $1,000, you can be charged with a Class 6 felony. On top of these criminal charges, the merchant themselves can sue you for the retail value of the goods plus an additional penalty. If you or a loved one have been charged with shoplifting in Arizona, working with a criminal defense attorney can be a great asset. Our firm can help you obtain a prosecution diversion program or a plea bargain for you case, allowing you to complete community service instead or demonstrate your innocence and get all charges dropped. Give the Davidson Criminal Defense & DUI Law Firm a call today!
