What are the penalties for shoplifting in New Jersey?

Shoplifting is a serious crime in New Jersey that carries significant penalties, such as community service and jail time. If you are facing a shoplifting charge, consider learning about the different consequences. Doing so could help you understand the severity of your case and how to move forward.

The different degrees of shoplifting

Shoplifting comes in different forms, such as under-ringing or leaving the store without paying for the items. In New Jersey, courts categorize shoplifting offenses based on the value of stolen items:

• Disorderly persons offense: The stolen goods amount to less than $200.

• Fourth-degree crime: The stolen goods have a value ranging from $200 to $500.

• Third-degree crime: The stolen goods’ value lies between $500 and $75,000.

• Second-degree crime: The stolen goods are worth more than $75,000 in value.

The presiding judge may aggregate all stolen items from separate shoplifting cases, especially if the acts were part of an organized group effort.

Mandatory penalties for shoplifting

The penalties for shoplifting vary. The court will decide what applies to your case based on the number of times you have committed the same offense:

• First offense: Minimum 10 days of community service

• Second offense: Minimum 15 days of community service

• Third and subsequent offense: Maximum 25 days of community service with a jail sentence of at least 90 days, if you committed a third degree crime or higher

Whether you have been accused of shoplifting for the first or second time, it can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record. It can also negatively affect your reputation, employment prospects and housing choices in the future. While this is true, you still have the chance to change for the better.

Dealing with a shoplifting charge is complex. Seeking legal advice from a criminal defense attorney might broaden your options and walk you through the process.