What exactly is shoplifitng and retail fraud?
In Michigan, we call shoplifting “Retail Fraud.” Retail fraud includes traditional shoplifting, and much more. A conviction can be life-changing and should be avoided at all costs.
“Am I guilty of retail fraud?”
Retail fraud is one of the most common criminal offenses charged in Michigan. Retail fraud is more commonly referred to as shoplifting. To prove a retail fraud charge, the prosecution must prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Aside from the property’s value, the elements of retail fraud are identical between first, second, and third-degree retail fraud.
First, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant took control of some property that the store offered for sale. Second, the prosecutor must show that the defendant moved the property. Many people think that the defendant must have removed the property from the store, but the law in Michigan is that “any movement is enough.” The law further indicates that “it does not matter whether the defendant actually got the property past the cashier or out of the store.”
If the prosecutor can prove that the defendant took the property and that they moved the property, the prosecution must then prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant intended to steal the property. Intent to steal means the defendant intended to permanently take the property from the store without the store’s consent.
The incident must have taken place inside the store or in the immediate area around the store, and it must have happened while the store was open to the public.
Retail Fraud in Michigan – What Degree of Retail Fraud Applies
The last element the prosecution must prove is the collective value of the property in question. If the value was $1,000 or more, the charge is First Degree Retail Fraud, a felony, and the defendant can receive a sentence in prison. If the value was $200 or more, but less than $1,000, the offense is Second Degree Retail Fraud, a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum sentence of 1 year in jail. Finally, if the value is less than $200, the offense is Retail Fraud Third Degree, and the maximum possible sentence is up to 93 days in jail.
Highly experienced retail fraud – shoplifting attorneys in Michigan
The Michigan retail fraud defense lawyers with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. have handled several hundred retail fraud cases throughout Michigan. They have also represented many clients who were not citizens of the United States and are facing deportation because retail fraud is considered under immigration law to be a crime involving moral turpitude, which can result in deportation. If you or a loved one is charged with or accused of committing retail fraud, call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. We will take the time to talk with you, answer all of your questions, and address each of your concerns. Even when things seem hopeless, we will find a way to help!
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.
We will find a way to help you and, most importantly,
we are not afraid to win!
