Shoplifting cases often involve misunderstandings—forgotten items in a cart, unpaid returns, or simple distraction.
Under Penal Law §155.25, stealing under $1,000 is Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor. But stores can also pursue civil penalties of up to five times the item’s value.
An attorney can negotiate restitution, prevent civil suits, and protect your record from a permanent theft conviction.