Kansas City Shoplifting, Theft & Stealing Charges

There are various offenses that fall under the umbrella of theft, including stealing and shoplifting. Certain crimes are charged as misdemeanors, while others are considered felonies. This is usually based on the value of the item or service stolen. A felony offense will result in serious penalties for those convicted, while the punishment for a misdemeanor theft offense is generally less severe. Regardless of whether you have been accused of stealing property or services of more than $25,000 in value or property valued at less than $500, it is critical to work with a seasoned Kansas City theft lawyer that specializes in all sorts of stealing, such as property theft, burglary, robbery and shoplifting. Prosecutors are vigorous in their efforts to punish those they believe are guilty to the greatest extent allowed under the law; we urge you to contact The O’Connor Law Firm today.

Stealing and Shoplifting in Kansas City, Missouri

While there are many types of theft including robbery, burglary, and other offenses, many wonder about whether there are differences between stealing and shoplifting. Basically, shoplifting is stealing. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony and the offense is classified as a class A, B, C, or D depends on several factors.

Missouri criminal law defines stealing as:

• ŸDefrauding or “cheating” a retailer by altering a price tag or price;
• ŸStealing services or property by refusing or failing to pay at a restaurant, hotel, or other facility providing products/services;
• Paying for services rendered or products as described above with a check or negotiable paper on which payment was refused (for instance, a “hot” check);
• Leaving a hotel, restaurant, inn, or other establishment and intentionally not paying for goods or services rendered

Penalties for Stealing & Shoplifting in Kansas City

The punishment for those convicted of stealing or shoplifting vary and may include:

• Class A misdemeanor, theft of goods valued at less than $500 – A fine of up to $1,000 and/or a maximum of 1 year in jail
• Class C felony, theft of goods valued between $500 and $25,000, theft of certain other goods, or a firearm – A fine of up to $5,000 and/or one to 7 years in jail. In this case the fine may also be an amount equal to twice the value of the theft, not to exceed $20,000
• Class B felony, theft of goods valued at $25,000 or more – Jail time of between 5 and 15 years

While some states refer to shoplifting as retail theft, Missouri law recognizes it as stealing. Many people consider shoplifting a minor issue, however as you can see it is a very serious matter and may be charged as a felony in the state. Any theft of property, services, or goods valued at more than $500 is a felony. When the value is less than $500, it may still be charged as a felony if firearms or other sensitive/dangerous property is involved.

Contact The O’Connor Law Firm Immediately

A conviction for shoplifting, stealing, or other types of theft in Kansas City can leave you facing jail or prison time, substantial fines, and more. Any criminal conviction can negatively impact a person’s career, reputation, and relationships. At The O’Connor Law Firm we fight aggressively on behalf of our clients, working to protect your legal rights and freedom. We urge you to contact our Kansas City criminal defense law firm for a free consultation today at 816-567-MATT.