Retail Theft in Greensburg

Understanding Retail Theft

Retail theft, commonly known as shoplifting, is a significant issue in Greensburg. Charges for this crime vary depending on the value of the items stolen and any prior convictions. If you’re arrested for retail theft, having a dedicated Greensburg criminal attorney is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Key Facts About Retail Theft

Several actions can lead to an arrest for retail theft. It’s important to be aware of the following behaviors that may have legal consequences:

• Label or Price Tag Manipulation: Removing, altering, or switching labels or price tags to buy an item at a reduced price, depriving the seller of its full retail value.
• Under-Ringing: Intentionally ringing up a sale at a price lower than the item’s full retail value, preventing the seller from receiving its true worth.
• Unauthorized Possession: Taking possession of an item for sale, transferring it to another person, or carrying it away without paying the full price.
• Container Switching: Moving items from their original container to another to avoid paying the full retail value.
• Tag Removal: Damaging or removing security tags or mechanisms on items to avoid paying the full retail value, thus depriving the seller of benefits from the item.
• Concealing Unpaid Items: Hiding unpaid items within a store or on its premises (such as the sidewalk or parking lot) is considered shoplifting and will be treated as such by store employees and law enforcement.

Store owners and employees have the authority and obligation to detain individuals suspected of stealing merchandise and to recover any unpaid items.

If you are 16 years of age or older and charged with shoplifting, the police may fingerprint you.

Levels of Retail Theft Offenses

Retail theft offenses are categorized into different levels:

• Summary Offense: First offense, involving stolen items valued below $150.
• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Second offense, involving stolen items valued below $150.
• First-Degree Misdemeanor: First or second offense, involving stolen items valued at $150 or more.
• Third-Degree Felony: Third or subsequent offense, regardless of the value of the stolen items.
• Third-Degree Felony: Stolen items valued over $2,000, or if the stolen item is a motor vehicle or firearm.

Arrested for Retail Theft? Here’s What to Do

If you are arrested for retail theft, it’s essential to stay calm and cooperate with the arresting officer. Avoid making any statements about your innocence or the incident.

Steps to Take:

1. Politely Refuse to Answer Questions: Do not answer any questions from the prosecutor without your Greensburg DUI attorney present. Anything you say can be misinterpreted or used against you.
2. Request an attorney: If the police attempt to question you, firmly request an Greensburg criminal attorney and decline to answer their inquiries.

Learn More About Retail Theft Laws in Pennsylvania

For additional information on retail theft laws in Pennsylvania, refer to Title 18, Chapter 39 of the Pennsylvania Criminal Code.  contact us at 844.PITT.DUI.