30 Sep Consequences for Theft and Shoplifting in Arizona
There are three crimes that fall under the category of theft: general theft, shoplifting and issuing a bad check. Some actions, like writing a bad check or finding someone’s property and not attempting to return it to them, may not seem like they’d be classified as outright theft, but according to Arizona law they’re just that. While some theft charges are not as serious as domestic violence or DUI in Arizona, theft charges can still come with some pretty severe felony charges depending on the value of the property stolen.
Theft in Arizona
The most obvious form of theft is taking someone’s property. However, you may also be charged with theft if you find property and fail to attempt to return it, obtain the services of another without payment, or receiving or possessing property that you have reason to believe is stolen. The punishment varies from around 6 months in jail for theft of property valued at less than $1,000 up to 5 years in prison for property valued at $25,000 or more.
Shoplifting in Arizona
Shoplifting is a very serious crime under the category of theft. There are a variety of reasons you can be charged with shoplifting including: removal of price tags, removing or moving items from their container, altering prices to attempt to pay less than required, concealing items, or taking merchandise from a business without payment.
Bouncing a Check in Arizona
Issuing a bad check is another form of theft. If you write a check with knowledge that your bank account has insufficient funds, you can be charged. You can also be charged if you write a check on a closed, inactive or fake bank account. Charges can vary from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 6 felony depending on the amount the check was written for.
Are you facing theft or shoplifting charges in Arizona? Don’t underestimate the potential severity of the consequences. Criminal charges can follow you your entire life and any chance of getting those charges dismissed is something you should pursue. Contact Certified Criminal Law Specialist Todd Coolidge today.
*The information in this blog is for general information purposes only. This blog post should not be taken to constitute a formal recommendation or professional advice. We exclude all representations, warranties, legal liability or responsibility relating to its content.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/28/2016) Mike Mozart (Flickr)