Shoplifting, commonly known as theft or stealing, is a serious crime in Texas. Penalties associated with this offense are severe and typically vary depending on the value of the stolen property.
Knowing the penalties is essential for anyone facing shoplifting charges. It is also critical to note that even the lowest shoplifting charges in Texas, classified as misdemeanors, can have long-lasting consequences, like a criminal record.
Having a criminal record can impact a person’s life in many ways. For example, it can affect a person’s:
- Future employment opportunities
- Loans and finances
- Ability to get student loans
Typically, if the property’s value is under $2,500, the offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine and jail time in most cases where the value of the items exceeds $100.
Felony shoplifting
Penalties for a felony shoplifting charge are more severe and typically involve high fines and significant jail time, sometimes years behind bars.
State jail felonies can result in 180 to two years in jail, and higher felonies, also associated with the value of the stolen items, can result in even higher fines plus up to ten years of imprisonment.
It is crucial for people facing shoplifting charges to understand the seriousness of the matter and seek the legal assistance they need to get through this difficult time. Remember that early legal intervention is vital in these kinds of cases.