When is Shoplifting a Felony in Illinois?

 Posted on January 08, 2025 in Theft

Shoplifting, or retail theft, is a very common criminal charge. Retail theft tends to increase during hard economic times when people cannot always afford to buy the things they need. It also increases during the holidays, in part because crowded stores and malls tend to make easier targets. The rise of the self-checkout has also encouraged more retail theft. Without employees overseeing the checkout process, shoppers may believe that they are less likely to be caught not ringing up an item and in some cases, may accidentally fail to scan an item. Retail theft is also a common juvenile offense due to its popularity with thrill-seeking teenagers. In most cases, shoplifting is only a misdemeanor. However, it can be charged as a felony depending on the value of the goods stolen and whether the defendant has prior shoplifting charges. If you are facing retail theft charges, you need an aggressive Joliet, IL criminal defense lawyer to represent you.

Shoplifting Over $300 Is a Felony

Shoplifting merchandise valued at less than $300 is normally a misdemeanor charge. While the limit seems fairly low, most casual retail theft falls into this category. Most shoplifters who are caught were trying to take relatively small household items, such as skin care products, clothing, and grocery items.

If the merchandise taken was worth more than $300, you might instead be charged with a felony. People who are caught trying to take more than $300 worth of merchandise are often experienced shoplifters or participants in shoplifting rings. Few casual or first-time shoplifters will attempt to steal merchandise that is highly valued.

Repeat Shoplifting Convictions Can Lead to Felony Charges 

If you have a previous retail theft conviction, you might be charged with a felony for a repeat offense regardless of the value of the stolen goods. This means that if a person is caught shoplifting twice, he or she could become a felon even if only small, inexpensive items were taken on each occasion. Illinois also has serial shoplifter laws, allowing courts to deal more harshly with repeat offenders.

Theft by Emergency Exit

Using an emergency exit to leave a store with stolen goods is always a felony. Leaving through an emergency exit can set off an alarm, which may cause panic among other shoppers and substantially disrupt the store’s usual business activities. You can be charged with a Class 2 felony if you used an emergency exit and were stealing more than $300 worth of merchandise.

Contact a Joliet, IL Retail Theft Attorney

Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. is highly experienced in representing people who have been accused of retail theft. Aggressive Will County, IL shoplifting lawyer Jack Zaremba will fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed. Contact us at 815-740-4025 for a complimentary consultation.