Retail Theft in Beaver: Understanding the Charges and Consequences

Shoplifting, commonly known as retail theft, is a prevalent crime in Beaver with varying charges based on stolen item value and prior convictions. If you find yourself facing arrest, it is vital to enlist the help of a dedicated Beaver criminal attorney. They will champion your case, striving for the best possible outcome.

Here are key facts about retail theft that you should know to avoid legal trouble:

• Label or Price Tag Manipulation: This occurs when labels or price tags are removed, changed, or switched to purchase items at lower prices, ultimately depriving the seller of their full retail value.

• Under-Ringing: This deceptive practice involves intentionally ringing up a sale at a price lower than the item’s true value, shortchanging the seller.

• Unauthorized Possession: Taking possession of an item for sale without paying the full price or transferring it to another person constitutes unauthorized possession, which is a punishable offense.

• Container Switching: Moving items from their original containers to different ones with the intent to prevent sellers from receiving their full retail value is a common form of retail theft.

• Tag Removal: Damaging or removing security mechanisms or control tags on items with the aim of avoiding payment for the full retail value is considered theft, preventing the seller from benefiting from their merchandise.

It is crucial to note that concealing unpaid items within a store or its premises, such as sidewalks or parking lots, is also an act of shoplifting. Store employees and law enforcement treat such actions accordingly.

Store owners and employees are authorized and obligated to detain individuals they suspect of stealing merchandise. They may also recover any unpurchased items.

It’s important to be aware that shoplifting charges may lead to fingerprinting by the police if you are 16 years of age or older.

Levels of Retail Theft Offenses

When it comes to retail theft, there are different levels of offenses that you should be aware of. Here’s a breakdown:

• Summary Offense: This applies to first-time offenses involving stolen items valued below $150.

• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: If it’s your second offense and the stolen items are below $150, this is the category you fall into.

• First-Degree Misdemeanor: Whether it’s your first or second offense, if the stolen items are valued at $150 or more, you’ll be facing a first-degree misdemeanor charge.

• Third-Degree Felony: This applies to third or subsequent offenses, regardless of the value of the stolen items.

• Third-Degree Felony (High Value): If the stolen items are valued over $2,000, or if the stolen item happens to be a motor vehicle or firearm, you’ll be dealing with a third-degree felony charge.

What to Do if You’ve Been Arrested for Retail Theft

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being arrested for retail theft, it’s crucial to handle it properly. Here are some steps to take:

• Stay Calm and Cooperative: When dealing with the arresting officer, it’s essential to remain calm and cooperative throughout the process. This will help establish a better rapport.

• Refrain from Making Statements: It’s in your best interest to avoid making any statements without the guidance of your Beaver DUI attorney. Anything you say can be misunderstood, taken out of context, or used against you.

• Exercise Your Right to an Attorney: If the police try to question you, assert your right to have an attorney present and decline to respond to their inquiries.

Want to Learn More About Retail Theft Laws in Pennsylvania?

If you want to dive deeper into retail theft laws in Pennsylvania, you can find more information in Title 18, Chapter 39 of the Pennsylvania Criminal Code.