What are the penalties for a shoplifting conviction in Michigan?

Shoplifting is a crime involving the taking of property from a store without paying for it. Under Michigan law, it is a theft crime which can result in criminal and civil penalties, including the repayment of the full retail price of property or return of undamaged property. You may also be charged with civil damages under Michigan law.

Shoplifting Penalties

If you have been charged with fraud, the charges may result from an act of stealing, an act of changing the price tag on an item or from attempting to get a refund from a store that is not legitimate. Michigan has three different types of charges that can result from shoplifting depending on the value of the property stolen:

• Fraud in the First Degree results when $1,000 or more is stolen, or when the defendant has had a prior conviction. The penalties for this felony conviction may include up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 fine (or three times the value of the stolen property).
• Fraud in the Second Degree results when property valued between $200 and $1,000 is stolen. A Misdemeanor conviction for this crime can result in up to 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine.
• Fraud in the Third Degree results when less than $200 is stolen. This Misdemeanor can result in up to three months in jail and a $500 fine.

Hire a Lawyer

Criminal charges that can result in conviction require swift conduct. A criminal defense attorney should be consulted regarding defenses, potential negotiations and other concerns.