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Criminal charges

shoplifting

Shoplifting or retail theft laws vary from state to state, and in many states the act of shoplifting—taking displayed goods from a commercial retail store during store hours and without paying for the goods—is classified as the criminal offense of theft or larceny.

Shoplifting, theft, and larceny laws are often classified in part by the value of the goods stolen, attempted to be stolen, or intended to be stolen. These laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Connecticut, shoplifting is considered a form of larceny, which is the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. The state classifies larceny offenses based on the value of the goods stolen, with increasing penalties for higher-value thefts. For example, shoplifting property valued at $500 or less is considered sixth-degree larceny, which is a class C misdemeanor. As the value of the stolen goods increases, the degree of larceny escalates, with first-degree larceny covering thefts of property valued over $20,000, which is a class B felony. Penalties for shoplifting can include fines, imprisonment, and/or probation, depending on the severity of the offense. Connecticut's statutes regarding larceny and theft can be found in the Connecticut General Statutes under Title 53a - Penal Code.

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Criminal charges

shoplifting

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Connecticut State Code

Connecticut State Code

Criminal charges

shoplifting

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