SHOPLIFTING DEFENSE EXPERTS
A SHOPLIFTING CONVICTION CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE.
Stealing goods without paying for them raises the prices in stores for everyone. Stealing something can also land you in jail—something you probably did not imagine when you took a small item like a ring or charm.
At Groth & Associates, we defend people accused of crimes. We understand that everyone can make a mistake and that what you probably need is a second chance. To give you the best defense possible, we carefully review the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including your criminal history. Below, we offer a summary of Ohio’s shoplifting laws to give you some idea of the penalties you are facing.
Free Consultation
If you are seeking legal guidance Groth & Associates has the experience you need.
Fill out the form and we will have a member of our firm contact you as soon as possible.
OHIO’S THEFT LAWS
In Ohio, shoplifting is prosecuted as theft, which is found at Ohio Revised Code 2913.02. Theft is defined as knowingly taking or controlling another person’s property:
- By threats;
- By deception;
- By intimidation;
- Beyond the scope of express or implied consent; and/or
- Without the owner giving consent.
For example, if you ask a store owner if you can hold an object and then walk out of the store, you have committed theft because the owner gave you permission to hold it in the store, not walk home with it. Likewise, if you bully someone into giving you something, you have also committed theft.
Punishment for Shoplifting
The punishments you will suffer can range from the mild to serious, depending on the value of the object you stole. The less valuable the goods stolen, the smaller the punishment:
CHARGE
- First-degree misdemeanor
- Fifth-degree felony
- Fourth-degree felony (grand theft)
- Third-degree felony
- Second-degree felony
- First-degree felony (aggravated theft)
VALUE OF ITEMS
- Up to $1,000
- At least $1,000 but less than $7,500
- At least $7,500 but less than $150,000
- At least $150,000 but less than $750,000
- At least $750,000 but less than $1.5 million
- At least $1.5 million or more
PUNISHMENT
- Up to 6 months in jail $1,000 fine
- 6-12 months in prison $2,500 fine
- 6-18 months in prison $5,000 fine
- 9-36 months in prison $10,000 fine
- 2-8 years in prison $15,000 fine
- 3-11 years in prison $20,000 fine
Conversely, if this is your first offense for a minor infraction, you might be able to avoid jail altogether. Discuss the possibility with your Toledo shoplifting lawyer.
OTHER PRACTICE AREA CASES
CONTACT GROTH & ASSOCIATES TODAY
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATIONHOW WE DEFEND SHOPLIFTING CASES
YOU MIGHT BE ABLE TO PLEAD TO A LESSER CHARGE
No two cases are the same, so we cannot say ahead of time how we will defend your case. It is vitally important to know what evidence the prosecutor has, such as surveillance video or your own admission of guilt. After getting stopped, some defendants admit to having taken an item, which makes bringing a defense harder.
In some situations, we might deny you stole anything, especially if the police or the store owner do not find the item on you. Sometimes surveillance video is suggestive but not definitive that you actually stole something.
In other situations, you might avoid punishment if you did not knowingly take an object, since this intent is an element of the crime. For example, you might have inadvertently walked out with something that had fallen in your purse or which someone else had placed there (such as your child). It is not a crime to walk out of a store with an item if you did not know you had the item on you.
In other cases, the only possible defense might be to argue that you deserve a favorable plea deal. Sometimes, plea deals are possible when the prosecutor does not have solid evidence or if you have no criminal history. You might be able to plead to a lesser charge or have the prosecutor recommend a light sentence.
Words from our clients
Stevin is by far the best Lawyer that I have encountered. He is professional, knowledgeable, and very patient. I have lived out of the country for the past 5 years and anytime I needed legal assistance he has always been there for me as if I was next door. I would strongly recommend Stevin Groth no matter what the circumstances are. His dedication and attention to detail is what’s appreciated the most. Thanks for all that you have done and you will continue to do for me.
LAWRENCE
Stevin was very professional and got me the best possible outcome for my case. I would recommend him to anybody that is looking for a great quality lawyer.
TYLER
I had the pleasure of working with Stevin Groth on a case. He went above and beyond what I expected. I expected the worst and he fought for me way better than anyone would have. Will use again if needed. Cannot express my gratitude enough. Thank you.
BILLY
CONTACT GROTH & ASSOCIATES TODAY
Everyone makes mistakes, and no one deserves serious prison time for these mistakes. To give yourself the best chance of avoiding the harshest consequences, you should hire the best criminal defense attorney you can find.
The attorneys at Groth & Associates have distinguished themselves through aggressive advocacy and a laser-sharp focus on the details of every case we accept. We leave no stone unturned as we strive for a favorable result for our clients.
If you would like to learn more, please contact us today. One of our shoplifting lawyers in Toledo can meet with you to discuss your case. To schedule a free consultation, please call or submit an online contact form.