Study Finds North Jersey a Top Target for Shoplifting Rings
A recent study by the National Retail Federation (NRF) states that North Jersey is one of the top targets for "shoplifting, cargo heists and thefts from stores and warehouses." According to a news report in The Record, retailers lose between $15 billion and $30 billion every year to organized retail theft. Both metropolitan New York and North Jersey have been named as regions with the most organized retail crime issues. New Jersey has responded to this growing issue with increased penalties for shoplifters involved in organized retail theft.
Shoplifting is a serious crime under New Jersey law. According to NJSA 2C:20-11, the value of the goods taken is directly related to the severity of the charges. Shoplifting is a disorderly persons offense if less than $200 is taken; a fourth-degree crime when the value of the goods taken is less than $500; a third-degree crime when the stolen items are valued between $500 and $75,000; and a second-degree crime when the items are valued at over $75,000.
New Jersey imposes stiffer penalties on offenders who may be involved in organized retail theft. The threshold for increased penalties is greatly reduced. Even if the value of the items is under $1,000, it may be considered a third-degree crime if the authorities believe the theft was part of an organized crime. Theft of merchandise valued at $1,000 or more can result in second-degree criminal charges.
The reputed criminal defense attorneys in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein have an excellent track record of handling all types of shoplifting charges. We fight to have our clients' charges reduced or even thrown out completely. Call our offices today at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you.
