Oklahoma Shoplifting Lawyer

In Oklahoma, the crime of larceny of merchandise refers to stealing property from a place of business, as opposed to a private citizen. Larceny of merchandise is commonly referred to as shoplifting.

Shoplifting Defined

Under Oklahoma law, larceny of merchandise from a retailer means taking any type of goods or property from a store without paying for it. This could include:

• Exiting the store with items that have not been paid for
• Concealing items while inside the store
• Switching price tags on items

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Penalties for Shoplifting in Oklahoma

Shoplifting may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the value of the merchandise taken. Typically, if the total value of the merchandise is less than $500, you will be charged with a misdemeanor and could face:

• Up to 30 days in jail and a fine between $10 and $500 for a first offense
• 30 days to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 for a second offense
• Two to five years in prison for a third or subsequent offense

If the total value of the merchandise taken is $500 or greater, you could be facing a felony charge. The consequences for felony shoplifting can include:

• One year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000 for merchandise valued between $500 and $999
• One to five years in prison for merchandise valued at or above $1,000

The penalties imposed by Oklahoma law for shoplifting can affect your record, employment opportunities, and future educational options if you are convicted. Even for a first offense, having a theft conviction on your criminal record can limit job prospects or professional licensing. For this reason, it is important to consider all your legal options and take the charges seriously. An experienced shoplifting lawyer in Oklahoma can guide you on next steps and help you determine whether alternative dispositions like diversion, deferred sentencing, or dismissal might be available in your case. Courts in Oklahoma County and Cleveland County frequently handle these matters and can consider several factors, such as prior offenses or the total value alleged, when determining sentencing. Understanding the process at the local level can help you prepare and advocate for the best possible outcome in your situation.

Collateral Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction

Many people facing shoplifting charges in Oklahoma are concerned not only about immediate penalties, but also about the longer-term impact that a conviction can have on their lives. A conviction may create barriers when applying for jobs, leasing an apartment, or seeking admission to colleges and universities. This is because theft offenses are seen as crimes of dishonesty, which employers and schools may view unfavorably when evaluating applicants. Some professional fields, such as healthcare, education, or financial services, may be especially sensitive to theft convictions on background checks.

In addition to having a criminal record, shoplifting convictions can also affect your ability to maintain certain occupational licenses, including those issued by Oklahoma state agencies. For young adults or students, a conviction can impact eligibility for scholarships, student loans, or participation in campus activities. If you have immigration status concerns, even a misdemeanor shoplifting conviction could possibly affect your case or future goals.

Because of these potential wide-reaching effects, it is vital to work with a shoplifting attorney in Oklahoma who can help you understand what is at stake and explore any available defenses or options for minimizing collateral damage. The Oklahoma Judicial Center and local courthouses may provide further information on expungement or record-sealing processes, which are sometimes available after a period of time for qualifying individuals. Seeking legal advice early gives you the best opportunity to make informed decisions about your future and your record.

Can I Be Detained?

Under certain circumstances, a storeowner or employee may be able to detain you until police arrive. In order to do this, the employee must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to believe that you took merchandise. If this is established, he or she may detain you in a reasonable manner and for a reasonable period of time to:

• Conduct a reasonable investigation
• Inform the police
• Perform a reasonable search
• Recover the merchandise

Call the Hunsucker Legal Group at (405) 544-2992 to schedule a free, no-risk case consultation today.