Multiple Shoplifting Arrests Made in New Jersey During the Holidays
Unfortunately, shoplifting incidents in New Jersey and elsewhere in the country tend to escalate during the holidays. According to NJ.com, between December 14 and 19, there were multiple arrests made along and near Route 22 in New Jersey involving shoplifting. For example, a 30-year-old woman was arrested on December 19 at a Sears store after allegedly being seen slipping a bottle of perfume inside her handbag. An 18-year-old man from South Plainfield was also arrested on suspicion of stealing a USB cable from a Wal-Mart store. A 20-year-old man from Scotch Plains was arrested on December 17 for allegedly shoplifting less than $10 worth of costume jewelry from Kohl’s. The holiday season continues to be notorious for an increase in shoplifting arrests in New Jersey.
Under New Jersey Statute 2C:20-11: “Any person purposely to take possession of, carry away, transfer or cause to be carried away or transferred, any merchandise displayed, held, stored or offered for sale by any store or other retail mercantile establishment with the intention of depriving the merchant of the possession,” may be charged with shoplifting.
Whether you have been charged with petty theft, shoplifting, grand theft, or burglary in New Jersey, it is critical that you have the representation of a skilled criminal defense lawyer. Any criminal conviction carries serious consequences, including jail time, probation, monetary penalties, and the stigma of a criminal record.
The Princeton criminal defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have successfully defended numerous individuals who have been charged with shoplifting in New Jersey. Some are victims of mistaken identity or a misunderstanding while others simply need help with pathological or psychological issues. If you or a loved one has been charged with shoplifting in New Jersey, please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 to discuss your case.
