Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a serious problem that causes business owners substantial losses every year. For many years the crime of shoplifting was set out in a separate Maryland statute but, as of July 1, 1979, it was consolidated, along with other offenses, into the Maryland theft statutes. Prior to the enactment of these statutes, the Maryland Joint Subcommittee on Theft Related Offenses expressed its opinion that shoplifting had become a crime that was not regarded seriously by many persons and was achieving an almost socially acceptable status and decided that the label of "shoplifting" should be removed from the Maryland Code and that activities considered to be shoplifting should be designated as "theft". Theft requires proof that a person willfully and knowingly obtained or exerted unauthorized control over property with the intent of depriving the owner of the property or that a person used, concealed, or abandoned property in a manner that deprived the owner of the property.

A person convicted of theft of property having a value of $500 or more is guilty of a felony and is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 15 years, a fine of up to $25,000, or both. If the property has a value of less than $500, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 18 months, a fine of up to $500, or both. If the property has a value of less than $100, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days, a fine of up to $500, or both.

Theft, arising out of shoplifting activity, is a serious offense under Maryland law and you should obtain the services of an experienced attorney to assist you in your case. I have had extensive experience with theft offenses over the years, both as a prosecutor and as a defense attorney, and can provide the skilled representation you need.