Shoplifting may seem like a common crime, but it’s also not one that is taken lightly. In fact, if you are charged with shoplifting in North Carolina, you could be facing felony charges.

There are many factors that go into determining the charges for shoplifting, but a conviction of either a misdemeanor or a felony can result in severe consequences for that seemingly minor “five-finger discount.” Here is what you need to know about shoplifting in North Carolina and the charges you may be hit with.

NC Shoplifting: A Tale

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When someone takes a chance and decides to shoplift from a store, they may assume if they get caught that it’s not a big deal. They may assume that they’ll be charged with stealing, get a slap on the wrist, and then move on with their lives. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality.

A 41-year old man in Taylorsville was arrested for shoplifting. He is now facing several charges, including larceny and concealment of goods. Both of these crimes carry serious penalties.

As with most other decisions in life, it’s good to ask yourself [...]

Retailers refer to the holiday season as the Super Bowl of shoplifting — as do shoplifters. Let us assure you, you’d be surprised who gets caught in the act. 

For example, a Kentucky sheriff’s lieutenant and his girlfriend were recently arrested for shoplifting Christmas decorations and a cooler from an online auction warehouse. Following his arrest, the officer was suspended without pay. 

Similarly, three shoplifters were recently detained for shoplifting at a GameStop using a clever, three-person approach, in which one person removed theft sensors, one person distracted employees, and one person attempted [...]

You’ve been arrested for shoplifting. Maybe it was a miscommunication, maybe you couldn’t help yourself. For most people in North Carolina, a first offense will probably land you a fine…and the penalty of public shame.

There’s only one problem. You’ve already been convicted of shoplifting before.

So what should you expect this time?

Second Convictions in North Carolina Come With Stronger Penalties

State laws take into account that someone’s first crime may just be their last. The penalties for a first shoplifting conviction (which can include up to 10 days in jail) are [...]