Denton Criminal Defense Lawyers

Shoplifting

Approximately $35 million worth of merchandise is shoplifted every year. Moreover, shoplifting tends to increase around December, an unsurprising trend because in December a lot of people are doing a lot of gift shopping.

People of all ages shoplift for a wide variety of reasons. Children may shoplift because they may not know better. They may shoplift because they think it is cool, because other children are doing it, because of peer pressure, or they may think it is fun. Adults may shoplift because they cannot afford to purchase the goods that they want. Or, they may be kleptomaniacs. A kleptomaniac is someone who has a compulsive urge to steal.

The punishment for shoplifting can vary. Young, first-time offenders may be told not to shoplift because it's bad and may not be allowed back into the shop. Older offenders who are caught may be banned from the store but not reported to authorities. If older offenders are caught, reported to the police, and arrested, they may or may not face criminal charges depending on a number of factors, such as their past criminal history and their reason for shoplifting.

People may not consider shoplifting a serious crime. What's the harm in stealing a small toy or a little bit of candy? The logic behind this question is understandable but it is clearly faulty. If everyone stole "just a little bit" the total amount would be very large.

Speak a Criminal Lawyer of Denton

If you have been accused of shoplifting and face criminal charges, contact the Denton criminal defense attorneys of Alexander & Associates by calling 972-420-6560.