8 Little Known Facts About San Diego Shoplifting Charges

Posted on: February 21st, 2023 by Dod Law

San Diego Shoplifting Charges

Shoplifting is an all too common offense in most of the country. It might not seem like a serious crime, but it can carry hefty consequences if you are convicted. Before you get caught up in a sticky situation, it’s important to know the facts about San Diego shoplifting charges and how these charges may affect you.

If you have any questions about shoplifting and the various legal ramifications that may result from it, reach out to Dod Law, APC today. We can help protect your rights and make sure you are accurately represented in court as well.    

8 Little Known Facts About San Diego Shoplifting Charges

Shoplifting occurs when someone takes an item from a store without paying for it. In San Diego, this is considered a felony offense if you are convicted three or more times or if the stolen items are valued at more than $950. Here are some interesting facts regarding shoplifting in San Diego that many people don’t know:

1. First-Time Offenses Are Often Petty Theft

First-time offenses are typically charged as petty theft misdemeanors. In most cases, if the items stolen were valued under $950 and the defendant has no prior convictions for theft, the charge is usually a misdemeanor. 

2. You Can Be Charged Even If You Don’t Leave the Store

It is possible to be charged with shoplifting even if you do not leave the store with the stolen goods. Just being in possession of merchandise you haven’t paid for and were intent on stealing can result in shoplifting charges.

3. Shoplifters Can Be Fined as Much as $1,000

If you are convicted of shoplifting in San Diego, the judge can impose fines of up to $1,000. In addition to this fine, offenders may be required to pay restitution for any items that have not been recovered.

4. Switching Price Tags Is Also Considered Shoplifting

Switching a higher-priced item’s price tag to reflect a lower cost is also considered shoplifting in San Diego. It doesn’t matter if you placed the original items back on the shelves or not; it still counts as shoplifting.

5. You Can Be Charged With Grand Theft for Stealing Items Totaling More Than $950

If the stolen items total more than $950, you may be charged with grand theft instead of petty theft. This is a much more serious offense and could result in jail time and fines if convicted. 

6. You Can Get Probation for San Diego Shoplifting Charges

If you are convicted of shoplifting in San Diego, the court may decide to give you probation instead of jail time. Probation is a period of supervised release, during which you must adhere to certain conditions, such as completing community service or attending counseling sessions. 

7. You Could End Up With a Criminal Record

If you’re convicted of shoplifting, it could stay on your criminal record and show up in background checks. This can impact your ability to get hired for a job or rent an apartment. 

8. An Experienced Lawyer Can Help 

Hiring an experienced lawyer can help you fight the shoplifting charges or negotiate a plea deal to reduce the penalties. An experienced lawyer can also explain your options and advise you on the best course of action for your case. 

San Diego Shoplifting Charges – Call an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney at Dod Law

If you or someone you know is facing shoplifting charges in San Diego, it’s important to reach out to a qualified and experienced criminal defense attorney. Dod Law, APC has the experience and knowledge to represent your case and provide you with the best outcome possible. Our team has over 18 years of experience fighting for our clients’ rights. 

So don’t wait—contact our office today at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Vista office 760-814-6025 or submit our contact form to arrange a free case review. We’ll fight for you and provide the expert representation you need.