New York City Shoplifting Lawyer
Types of Shoplifting
Various types of shoplifting charges exist under the New York Penal Code. These include petit larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, and grand larceny. Petit larceny and criminal possession of stolen property are generally charged as misdemeanors. Grand larceny in a shoplifting case is generally charged as a 4th-degree felony though more serious felony charges may apply, depending on the value of the goods stolen.
Various methods of shoplifting can result in charges. These include taking items and walking out of the retail store, concealment, theft through the use of booster bags, tag switching, group shoplifting, and shoplifting through a practice called "sweethearting." Taking items and making a fast exit is one of the quickest methods, requiring little planning. To make this type of shoplifting more difficult, retail stores generally place expensive merchandise as far from exits as possible. Concealment involves taking an item and hiding it inside a shopping bag, backpack, pocket, or other place. Detection of this type of shoplifting requires the act of concealment being seen or an alarm sounding.
Shoplifting with the use of booster bags involves bags which are lined with material that disrupts communication between magnetic, microwave, or RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags and their respective readers. These bags also conceal stolen merchandise and are often made from the retailer's own shopping bags.
Tag switching refers to removing the price tag on an item and replacing it with a cheaper tag from a less expensive item. It also involves placing an inexpensive tag on an item that has no tag at all. Group shoplifting involves individuals acting together to steal goods. Sweethearting refers to the practice of a store cashier or employee who fails to scan items at checkout for a friend. The employee may pretend to scan items but covers the barcode or moves or stacks the items in such a way as to avoid scanning.
Legal Representation in a Shoplifting Desk Appearance Ticket
Many circumstances and factors can lead to a false arrest for shoplifting. If you are facing shoplifting charges on a Desk Appearance ticket, you should seek experienced legal help. You will be required to have an attorney representing you in court. By contacting the law offices of Lance Fletcher for a consultation with a New York City shoplifting attorney, you can place your case in the hands of a proven legal professional. Our firm will work diligently to help you achieve the most favorable outcome possible.
Contact a New York City shoplifting lawyer at the firm for a consultation about your shoplifting ticket today.