Penalties for Shoplifting in Pennsylvania

Shoplifting in Pennsylvania comes with serious penalties, including fines and jail time. The degree of these penalties depends on the circumstances of the crime in question.

Any merchant or business owner who has reason to believe an individual has shoplifted is legally allowed to detain that individual long enough to determine if a crime has occurred and to contact police.

Below is a quick overview of the criminal and civil penalties for shoplifting in Pennsylvania:

• Value of merchandise is less than $150, first retail theft offense: This type of shoplifting is classified as a summary offense and is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and up to $300 in fines.
• Value of merchandise is less than $150, secord retail theft offense: This type of shoplifting is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in jail and up to $5,000 in fines.
• Value of merchandise is $150 or more, first or second retail theft offense: This type of shoplifting is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to five years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines.
• Regardless of the value of the merchandise, a third or subsequent retail theft offense: This type of shoplifting is classified as a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in jail and up to $15,000 in fines.
• Value of merchandise exceeds $1,000 or is a firearm or motor vehicle: This type of retail theft is classified as a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in jail and up to $15,000 in fines.

There are potential civil penalties for shoplifting, as well. A merchant may file a lawsuit against an adult shoplifter or the guardians of a minor shoplifter in civil court to recover damages. The damages will typically equal the value of the merchandise if it is not returned in its previous condition, along with any damages arising from the incident, court and attorney fees and additional civil penalties.

For the sound legal guidance you need when facing charges, meet with experienced Reading criminal defense attorney David R. Eshelman.