Facing Retail Theft Charges in Naperville, Illinois? We Can Help
Naperville, with its bustling shopping centers and vibrant downtown, is a hotspot for retail activity. While most shoppers enjoy their time in the city’s stores, retail theft accusations are more common than one might think. A retail theft charge can be intimidating, with potential consequences that include jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been accused of retail theft in Naperville, it’s vital to take the matter seriously and seek legal representation from our Naperville retail theft lawyer.
Illinois Law on Retail Theft and Related Penalties
Retail theft is a criminal offense under 720 ILCS 5/16-25, which covers a range of actions considered theft in a retail environment. These include taking items without paying, altering or swapping price tags, under-ringing items, and using theft detection shielding devices to bypass security systems. The statute also applies to situations where rented property is not returned within the agreed timeframe.
The penalties for retail theft depend on the value of the merchandise and the defendant’s prior record. For items worth less than $300, retail theft is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor, with potential penalties of up to one year in jail and fines of $2,500. When the value exceeds $300, the offense becomes a Class 4 felony, punishable by one to three years in prison and fines of up to $25,000. Repeat offenses or the use of sophisticated tools to commit theft can result in elevated charges and more severe penalties.
The Process of a Retail Theft Case
Retail theft cases often begin when store employees or loss prevention personnel detect suspicious activity. Common methods include monitoring surveillance cameras, reviewing sales transactions, or witnessing attempted thefts firsthand. When an incident is reported to law enforcement, police will investigate by gathering evidence such as recovered merchandise, security footage, and witness testimony.
After an arrest or citation, the defendant will be required to attend an arraignment, where they can plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If the case proceeds, both the prosecution and defense will engage in the discovery process, exchanging evidence and preparing for trial. A defense attorney can use this phase to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a strategy to fight the charges.
Why You Need a Skilled Defense Attorney
Retail theft charges can have far-reaching consequences, especially if they result in a felony conviction. A skilled defense attorney plays a critical role in protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of the charges. They can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate plea deals to reduce charges, and argue for alternative sentencing options like probation or community service.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg understands the complexities of retail theft cases in Naperville and works tirelessly to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Contact Our Naperville Retail Theft Criminal Defense Attorney For Your FREE Consultation
If you have been charged with Retail Theft in Naperville or anywhere in DuPage County, contact The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for skilled legal assistance and to receive your free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. We are here to provide the aggressive legal representation you need to protect your rights and your future. Let us fight for you.