Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Defending Against Shoplifting Charges in Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois, a thriving city with historical roots and a growing economy, serves as a regional hub for retail activity. With an abundance of shopping centers and local businesses, it’s no surprise that accusations of shoplifting are common in this vibrant community. Being charged with retail theft, however, is not a simple matter. Under Illinois law, shoplifting can lead to severe consequences that affect your freedom, finances, and reputation. For those accused of this crime in Joliet, an experienced defense attorney is essential to ensure their rights are protected.
Illinois Retail Theft Law and Its Scope
Illinois addresses shoplifting under 720 ILCS 5/16-25, defining retail theft as any act intended to deprive a retailer of merchandise or its full value. This statute encompasses a range of activities, including taking items without paying, altering price tags, under-ringing at checkout, and failing to return leased or rented items. Even attempting to conceal merchandise within the store can result in charges.
Shoplifting charges are classified based on the value of the merchandise. If the total value of the items is less than $300, the offense is typically a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties include up to one year in jail, fines of up to $2,500, and possible probation. If the value exceeds $300 or if the accused has prior retail theft convictions, the charge escalates to a Class 4 felony. Felony convictions carry sentences of one to three years in prison, substantial fines, and the possibility of restitution to the retailer.
How Shoplifting Cases Begin
Shoplifting allegations often begin when a store employee or security personnel observes suspicious behavior. Store security may detain the accused and contact local law enforcement. Once police arrive, they may conduct a preliminary investigation, which could include reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and inspecting the suspect’s belongings.
If probable cause is found, the individual may be arrested or issued a citation requiring a court appearance. From this point, the legal process unfolds, beginning with an arraignment where the defendant enters a plea of guilty or not guilty. Early intervention by a defense attorney can significantly impact the trajectory of the case, as they can review the evidence and challenge procedural errors.
Evidence in Retail Theft Cases
Prosecutors in shoplifting cases rely on evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and recovered merchandise. Store security reports and loss prevention documents are also critical pieces of evidence. For more advanced shoplifting accusations, such as using theft-detection shielding devices, forensic evidence may be introduced.
Defense attorneys meticulously examine this evidence to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies. For example, surveillance footage may not clearly show the defendant committing theft, or eyewitnesses may provide conflicting accounts. Such flaws in the prosecution’s case can be leveraged to seek reduced charges or a dismissal.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Shoplifting charges may seem minor, but their consequences are anything but trivial. A conviction results in a criminal record that can harm employment prospects, professional licenses, and educational opportunities. Having a skilled defense attorney ensures that your rights are upheld and that the case is handled with care.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, argue for alternative sentencing, or even work to have the charges dismissed entirely. For first-time offenders, diversion programs may be an option, allowing the accused to avoid a conviction and maintain a clean record.
Call Us For A Free Consultation
If you’re facing shoplifting charges in Joliet, Illinois, don’t wait to secure legal representation. Contact the Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for a free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. We serve clients in Joliet, Will County, and surrounding areas, including Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties. Let us fight to protect your rights and your future.
