What Happens When a Juvenile is Caught Shoplifting? Teenage Shoplifting Consequences
Shoplifting is a serious problem, with retailers losing billions of dollars worth of merchandise each year to theft. A significant portion of those losses are due to teenage shoplifters. According to the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention, 25% of shoplifters are teens between 13-17 years old.
If your teen is caught shoplifting, it’s important to understand the potential legal consequences they may face as a juvenile offender. This article will explain what happens when a minor is caught shoplifting and how the juvenile justice system typically handles these cases.
What is Considered Shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a type of larceny or theft that involves stealing merchandise that is displayed for sale in a store without paying for it. This can include concealing items and leaving the store, altering or swapping price tags, or eating food without paying. Shoplifting is a crime in all 50 states. When a shoplifter is caught, it initiates a legal process that can result in criminal charges.
What Happens When a Teen is Caught Shoplifting For the First Time?
In most cases, for a first-time teenage shoplifter, if the stolen items are of relatively low value, the store may choose not to press charges if the merchandise is returned. The teen may be banned from the store and their parents will be called. However, the store owner is within their rights to report the theft to police. Getting caught shoplifting even once can be enough to enter the juvenile into the legal system.
Will a Teen Be Arrested for Shoplifting?
Whether a teen is arrested for shoplifting depends on factors like the value of the goods stolen, if it’s a repeat offense, and the store’s policy. For low-value thefts, the police may issue a citation and notice to appear in court rather than making an arrest. But if the stolen merchandise is valuable enough to be considered grand theft or if the teen has a history of shoplifting, an arrest is more likely.
Is Shoplifting a Misdemeanor or Felony for a Juvenile?
Shoplifting is usually charged as a misdemeanor for a first offense if the value of the stolen property is low. Felony shoplifting charges are more likely if the stolen goods are very valuable or if the offender has a serious prior record. States have different thresholds for what amount constitutes felony larceny theft.
What Are the Penalties for Juvenile Shoplifting?
Shoplifting penalties for juvenile offenders vary based on the severity of the offense and the teen’s prior record. Common consequences of shoplifting may include:
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Suspension of driver’s license
- Mandatory counseling
- Diversion programs
- Restitution to the store owner
- Juvenile detention in serious cases
For a first-time offense of petty theft, a juvenile may only be ordered to pay a small fine, perform community service, make restitution to the store owner, and serve a brief probation period. However, a repeat offender who steals high-value merchandise could face time in a juvenile detention center.
How Do Juvenile Shoplifting Cases Work?
In the juvenile court system, shoplifting is considered an “act of delinquency”. A minor offender doesn’t face a criminal trial, but rather an adjudication hearing in front of a juvenile court judge. The judge will review evidence, hear arguments, and decide if the juvenile is delinquent. If so, the judge then determines what penalties are appropriate. Throughout the juvenile system legal process, a minor has the right to be represented by a criminal defense attorney.
Will a Juvenile Have to Pay Restitution?
In many shoplifting cases, the court may order that the juvenile pay restitution to the store owner to compensate them for the stolen items. The court may also order a juvenile to pay fines. If the offender can’t afford monetary payments, sometimes the court will allow them to perform community service instead.
Can a Juvenile Be Sentenced to Detention for Shoplifting?
Yes, in more serious cases like felony shoplifting, a teen could be sentenced to spending time in a juvenile detention facility, which is like jail for minors. Juvenile detention centers are very strict, harsh environments. Minor shoplifting infractions aren’t likely to result in detention, but it’s a possibility for repeat offenders or high-value thefts.
What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction?
A juvenile shoplifting conviction could lead to serious long-term consequences, even if it seems like a minor infraction. If the offense is severe enough to warrant being placed into state custody, they could be sent to a foster home or youth correctional facility. Having a criminal record for theft can impact a teen’s ability to get into college, secure employment, or qualify for professional licenses later in life.
What Should You Do If Your Teen Is Arrested for Shoplifting?
If your teen is arrested for shoplifting, take the situation seriously but remain calm. Cooperate with store security and law enforcement. Contact a local criminal defense lawyer with experience handling juvenile cases as soon as possible. Prepare for court proceedings and follow the attorney’s advice. Make sure your teen understands the severity of their actions and complies with any court orders and penalties.
Summary of Key Points
- Shoplifting is a common crime among teenagers that can result in serious legal consequences.
- If a minor is caught shoplifting, they will likely face fines, probation, community service and restitution.
- First-time petty offenses may only get a “slap on the wrist.” Meanwhile, felony-level shoplifting can lead to time in juvenile detention.
- Teen shoplifting cases are handled in juvenile court. In juvenile court, a judge determines if they are delinquent and decides penalties.
- A juvenile shoplifting conviction can have lasting negative impacts on a teen’s future.
- If your teen is arrested for shoplifting, take it seriously. Then, contact a criminal defense attorney for help navigating the juvenile justice system.
