18-Year-Old Arrested for Attempted Liquor Theft

An 18-year-old was arrested Monday night at a local store. The man was allegedly caught red-handed on camera. Reports state that the teen came into the store wearing a backpack and then made his way to the liquor department. A loss prevention officer at the store says he saw the man take containers of alcohol off the shelves and put them into his backpack. The 18-year-old then walked past the checkout lines towards the exit doors without paying for the items. It was at that point that the loss prevention officer stopped him and called local authorities. He was found with $64 worth of liquor in his backpack. Police arrived and took the man into custody. He has been charged with misdemeanor retail theft and will be appearing in court in early April. Contact a criminal defense lawyer right away if you have been accused of a theft crime or other offense.

About Chicago Shoplifting Charges

Shoplifting, also known as "retail theft", can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value of the items involved. This charge can be brought against anyone accused of trying to take store merchandise without the intention of paying for it. Trying to fraudulently get a lower price for an item by altering price tags or through other means can also be charged as retail theft. It is important to know that employees such as security guards and theft prevention officers at retail businesses can legally search an individual that they suspect has stolen something from the store. They do not have to follow the same regulations as law enforcement officers in some aspects.

Shoplifting is usually charged as a misdemeanor if the value of the merchandise taken is less than $300. Felony charges may be brought against someone suspected of stealing items worth over $300. Penalties can include jail time, fines and restitution with longer imprisonment terms and higher fines in the case of a felony theft. Don't let your life be negatively impacted by criminal charges—get the skilled help you need to fight the accusations against you.

Have you been arrested for a theft offense in Chicago?

Contact my firm, the Law Offices of Mitch Furman, right away to schedule a time to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Being charged with a crime can be a very stressful experience and can affect your reputation and your future. Get the help you need from a dedicated legal professional you can trust to look out for your best interests!