Shoplifting in Virginia is most common. Shoplifting means that the action of stealing goods from a shop while show off to be a customer. Shoplifting is also known as five-finger discount. Shoplifting, originally called “lifting,” is as old as shopping. The first documented shoplifting started to take place in 16th-century London, and was carried out by groups of men called lifters. In the Islamic legal system called Sharia, “Hu dud” (meaning limits or restrictions) calls for “Sariqa” (theft) to be punished by amputation of the thief’s hand. The most common shoplifted item is used to be cigarettes, mostly shoplifted items are small and easy to hide. For example, instant coffee, razor, especially steak, small Tech items like MP3 players, CDs, DVDs, USB flash drive, Smartphone and earphones. Shoplifting is considered as a form of theft and is subject to prosecution.
Shoplifters may hide items in their pockets, under their clothes, in bags such as backpacks, or in a personal item they are carrying (e.g., a box). Shoplifting items valued at more than $200 but less than $500 is considered a 4th degree offense, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. On the other hand, first-time offenders who are convicted of taking items valued at less than $200 face no more than 10 days in jail. Shoplifting is punished as greedy in Virginia. Shoplifting is committed when a person commits actions such as taking possession of or concealing property, altering price tags, or transferring goods from one container or another, with the intention of defrauding the owner of the value or converting the goods without paying the purchase price.
Some punishments for shoplifting in Virginia:
Petit larceny shoplifting, Taking goods valued at less than $200 Class 1 Misdemeanor Up to 12 months of jail time and/or a fine up to $2,500
Grand larceny shoplifting, Felony (or misdemeanor, at the discretion of the jury or judge) If felony, between one and 20 years in jail
Adult shoplifters identified eight common beliefs of shoplifters:
- If I am careful and wise, I will not get caught.
- Even if I do get caught, I will not be turned in and prosecuted.
- Even if I am prosecuted, the punishment will not be severe.
- The merchants deserve what they get.
- Everybody, at some time or another, has shoplifted; therefore it’s OK for me to do.
- Shoplifting is not a major crime.
- I must have the item I want to shoplift or if I want it, I should have it.
- It is okay to shoplift because the merchants expect it.
If you have been accused of shoplifting in Virginia, it is imperative that you consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our criminal defense lawyers are highly experienced defending individuals in Virginia court. That will help you according to the laws and their recommendations and also guide their rules and regulations and provide best solutions to moving forward under Virginia laws guidelines.