A shoplifting conviction in Arizona shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’ve been charged with shoplifting, contact a Phoenix shoplifting attorney at Stone Rose Law firm today. The offense of shoplifting is defined by A.R.S. § 13-1805(A) and generally involves the theft of goods displayed for sale in a retail establishment. A person commits shoplifting in Arizona if, while in an establishment in which merchandise is displayed for sale, they knowingly obtain the goods of another with the intent to deprive the other of such goods by:
Shoplifting charges is a serious charge and can come with substantial penalties. If you or a loved one is facing charges related to shoplifting, it’s important to take action because it is a serious theft crime with substantial penalties. Make sure you understand the charges and the possible penalties involved. Reach out to Stone Rose Law to speak with a Phoenix defense attorney before you talk to the police about your case. Call our local law firm at (480) 498-8998 to schedule a free consultation about your case today.
A person is presumed to have the necessary intent to commit shoplifting if they knowingly conceal on themselves or another person unpurchased merchandise while within the establishment where they are for sale. Similarly, a person is also presumed to have the necessary intent if they use an artifice, instrument, container, device or other article to facilitate the theft of merchandise. Note that this presumption is rebuttable and can be overcome with evidence that the accused did not intend to deprive the owner of his or her goods. However, when applicable it does relieve the State from specifically proving that the defendant intended to deprive the owner of the goods. If you’re facing shoplifting charges and have questions, speak with a knowledgeable Phoenix shoplifting attorney.
The severity of a shoplifting offense depends on the value of the items at issue. If they are valued at less than $1,000, it is a class 1 misdemeanor, unless the shoplifted item is a firearm. If the shoplifted item is a firearm, then the offense is a felony. In addition, if the items are valued at over $1,000, then shoplifting becomes a felony. Shoplifting can also be charged as a felony, regardless of the value of shoplifted items, if the suspect has committed two or more offenses involving burglary, shoplifting, robbery, or organized retail theft in the last five years.
Regardless of the offense level, shoplifting is a serious offense that can result in incarceration, probation, fines, and restitution. If you have been investigated for, arrested for or charged with shoplifting, call Stone Rose Law now at (480) 498-8998 for a free consultation with a shoplifting attorney in Phoenix, AZ.
