Shoplifting offenses, also known as retail fraud or retail theft, are relatively common. There are many people who commit impulse shoplifting offenses. There are also groups of people who participate in organized retail thefts.
Historically, the penalties for minor shoplifting offenses have been relatively low. New Jersey treats offenses involving assets worth less than $200 as a disorderly person’s offense instead of a serious crime. The governor recently signed a bill into law that increases the risks involved in shoplifting. Those accused of stealing or trying to steal from retail establishments may not face more serious charges and penalties as a result.
What rules changed?
The new law addressing shoplifting creates a variety of additional risks for those accused of shoplifting. The state can now pursue aggravated assault charges instead of simple assault charges against anyone who uses physical force against retail workers while shoplifting from a store.
The state can now pursue a second-degree criminal charge against those who fail to pay taxes when operating an organized retail theft scheme. The sale of stolen property is now also a prosecutable offense under the new law. The state must now also take certain steps to combat organized retail fraud, which could lead to more investigations and prosecutions in the future.
Individuals accused of shoplifting may need help exonerating themselves. Understanding how laws have changed could make it easier for defendants to see the value in fighting their shoplifting charges instead of pleading guilty. The sooner those accused of theft offenses secure legal support, the better their chances of limiting the consequences they’re facing.