Theft Charges for Shoplifting
A shoplifting arrest at the Columbia Center Mall in Kennewick, WA involved a 31-year-old mom who stripped all her clothes off to prove she had not stolen anything, according to news reports. The mother in question evidently was stopped for shoplifting and refused to put her clothes back on. When police did arrive, the mother’s daughter, age 9, revealed a jewelry box hidden under her shirt.
If you have been arrested for shoplifting charges in Howard County or elsewhere throughout Maryland, it is important to have an experienced criminal lawyer represent you.
Penalties for Thefts Under $1,000 — Misdemeanor
In Maryland, penalties on conviction of theft of less than $100 can be up to 90 days in jail or a fine up to $500, or both. For theft convictions over $100 but less than $1,000, jail time can be up to 18 months, with a fine up to $500, or both. Additionally, the person convicted must make restitution to the owner of the property stolen. Anything under $1,000 is a misdemeanor.
Felony Charges – Shoplift More Than $1,000
If the value of the items stolen is more than $1,000, the crime is considered a felony under Maryland criminal law.
23 Million People Accused of Shoplifting in the US
According to Shoplifters Alternative, about 23 million people shoplift, and one-quarter of these are teenagers. Howard County shopping malls like Columbia Mall offer significant temptations, and there are occasions when people make mistakes in judgment.
If you have been arrested for shoplifting anything from a pair of jeans to an expensive electronic item, you must take action to protect your rights and avoid a criminal record if at all possible. A conviction on a shoplifting charge can impact your ability to get a job, a college loan, and possibly even your ability to get credit.
Talking with an attorney experienced in investigating and successfully defending clients against shoplifting charges, or any other type of theft, can be critical to the outcome of your case.
Criminal Lawyer Howard County MD
Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including cases involving shoplifting and theft. With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.
Top Rated Columbia and Ellicott City MD Shoplifting Defense Attorney
Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in shoplifting, theft, and other criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.
Arrested for Shoplifting? Contact Experienced Theft Defense Attorney in Howard County, MD
To schedule an appointment with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Smith Criminal Defense Law Firm, call 410-740-0101 or contact us online. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
