New Jersey Criminal Defense Blog

Two men were recently arrested on suspicion of stealing thousands of dollars worth of goods from a number of New Jersey stores. According to The Courier-Post, the two men allegedly stole from stores such as Lord & Taylor, Gap, and Banana Republic in Freehold Township. When police arrested one of the men outside of a mall, they discovered more than $11,000 worth of merchandise that had been stolen. One of the men faces several criminal charges, including robbery, shoplifting, simple assault, conspiracy, and possession of burglary tools. The other defendant faces criminal charges that include conspiracy, receiving stolen property, and possession of burglary tools. Police are looking for a third suspect who they believe may have been assisting the two men.

The severity of charges in a shoplifting case generally depends on the amount of merchandise that was stolen. For example, when under $200 worth of stolen merchandise is found, a disorderly person offense may result in up to six months of imprisonment. Stealing between $200 and $500 worth of goods may result in a fourth degree conviction that comes with up to 18 months of imprisonment. A third degree conviction with a three to five year prison sentence may result when the stolen merchandise is valued between $500 and $75,000.

A criminal defense attorney will examine the circumstances surrounding a shoplifting arrest to make sure that the defendant’s rights were not violated. Additionally, a skilled lawyer will fight to have charges reduced or dismissed. Alternative sentencing such as community service is also a possibility when the defendant in question is a first-time offender.

The New Jersey shoplifting defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help defendants who are facing shoplifting charges in the state of New Jersey. We will carefully review the circumstances surrounding a shoplifting arrest to determine the best possible outcome for our clients. Call us today at 609-240-0040 to discuss your case.