Being accused of shoplifting can be stressful and confusing. Whether the allegation involves a small item from a retail store or a more serious accusation involving significant property, a shoplifting charge can have consequences that extend beyond the immediate situation.

If you have been charged with shoplifting in Georgia, understanding the allegations against you and your legal options is an important first step.

What Is Shoplifting in Georgia?

Georgia law generally treats shoplifting as intentionally taking merchandise or exercising control over merchandise with the purpose of depriving the merchant of its value. Shoplifting allegations can involve actions such as concealing merchandise, altering price tags, skip-scanning, or leaving a store without paying.

The specific circumstances of an alleged offense matter. What happened, what evidence exists, and what prosecutors can prove may all affect the outcome of a case.

What Are the Penalties for Shoplifting?

Shoplifting Merchandise Valued at $500 or Less

When the value of the merchandise is $500 or less, shoplifting is generally treated as a misdemeanor under Georgia law. A misdemeanor conviction can carry significant consequences, including up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000, along with other potential consequences such as probation and restitution.

Shoplifting Merchandise Valued at More Than $500

When the value of the merchandise is more than $500, Georgia law allows the offense to be prosecuted as a felony. A felony shoplifting conviction can carry substantially more serious consequences, including prison time and fines.

You may be eligible for pretrial diversion programs or special types of pleas that result in the arrest being restricted off your record.

Why the Difference Matters

The distinction between a misdemeanor and felony shoplifting charge can be significant. A felony conviction can have long-term consequences for employment, professional licensing, housing, education, and other areas of life.

If you have been accused of shoplifting, don’t assume that the case is minor simply because the property was recovered or the alleged theft involved a retail store. The potential charge and penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the case.

An experienced Georgia criminal defense attorney can review the allegations, examine the evidence, and explain what penalties and legal options may apply to your situation.

What Evidence Can Be Used in a Shoplifting Case?

Evidence in a shoplifting case may include store surveillance footage, witness statements, receipts, recovered merchandise, statements made to store employees or law enforcement, and other physical or electronic evidence.

Importantly, being accused of shoplifting does not automatically mean that the prosecution can prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can examine the evidence and look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Can a Shoplifting Charge Be Defended?

Yes. Every criminal case is different, and there may be several issues worth investigating.

If you or a loved one has been arrested or given a citation for Shoplifting, call the lawyers at W. Scott Smith PC for a FREE CONSULTATION at 404-581-0999.