Shoplifting is the taking of merchandise from a store with the intent to keep it permanently. If the value of the merchandise taken is over $250 it can be charged as a larceny over $250 making it a felony in Massachusetts. A shoplifting conviction can carry a fine of up to $250 if the value of the merchandise is less than $100; a $500 fine for a subsequent offense and 2 years in the house of corrections for a third or subsequent offense.

A majority of shoplifting charges in Massachusetts s are petty crimes committed by people who have no prior criminal record and steal or shoplift out of impulse control or other behavioral issues totally unrelated to the act itself. Some people with impulse control or untreated behavioral issues end up with multiple arrests and convictions without even realizing the reasons they are engaging in such high risk behavior. We work with experts who can help explain to the Court that actions like these are impulse control issues that can be treated and controlled through counseling rather than in a criminal conviction on someone’s permanent record. If you are charged with a theft crime like shoplifting whether it be a petty crime or a much more serious felony in Boston or anywhere in Massachusetts. Call attorney Frank Fernandez now for a free consultation, 617-393-0250.