During the Holidays, long register lines and thin wallets
might make some individuals consider taking merchandise without paying. Do not
do it. Shoplifting is theft, which is considered a crime of moral turpitude. Meaning,
the crimes are based on the perpetrator having an evil intent and violates the
accepted standard of society. For immigration purposes, those who are not US Citizens
may be banned from the United States if found guilty of committing a crime of
moral turpitude. In Virginia, shoplifting items worth more than $200 is Grand
Larceny, and a felony. The punishment can be up to 12 months in jail and a
$2,500 fine. In Maryland, shoplifting items worth less than $1,000 is called
property theft, and it’s a misdemeanor. The punishment can be up to 18 months
in jail and a $500 fine. Taking items worth more than $1,500 is a felony that
can lead up to five years incarcerated and a fine of $10,000. If you’ve
received a criminal charge for shoplifting this holiday season, you need a top
rated criminal defense lawyer. Call us today.
