Theft

In Minnesota shoplifting is defined as theft. All thefts, no matter how small are crimes. Minnesota does not have a petty misdemeanor theft statute. Petty misdemeanor theft convictions do exist, but only as a legal fiction to allow for plea bargains. Theft as a crime in Minnesota is defined in Statute 609.52. The statute is lengthy, but it is enough to know that theft is the intent to deprive another person of his or her property without permission or authority to do so.

There are three levels of theft in Minnesota. The lowest level, theft valued under $500.00 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000.00 fine. Any amount, even an item valued at a penny and taken without permission or authority is a crime. Shoplifting items valued between $500 and under $1,000.00 are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in jail and a $3,000.00 fine. Shoplifting over $1,000.00 is a felony punishable by more than a year and a day in prison.

Pleading guilty to any of these crimes will result in a criminal conviction and criminal record. These records are public and visible to anyone with a computer and an internet connection. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the Courts keep detailed records of these convictions.

In order to try to keep these offenses off your criminal record you should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Martin Azarian has over twenty years of criminal defense and courtroom experience. He as the legal knowledge and experience to do everything legally possible to keep this offense off your criminal record. If you have been charged with shoplifting or theft call Martin Azarian at 612-343-9000 or 952-975-0663 as soon as possible to discuss your case.