Shoplifting is stealing or attempting to steal, products or goods from a retail store.

Shoplifting can include intentionally taking something without paying for it by hiding, concealing, or modifying a store’s product - including the price on the price tag - with the intention of removing it from the store without paying for it or paying the full value for it.

The term, "shoplifting" really descibes the act used commit a "larceny." The crime of shoplifting is actually called either "petit larceny," or "grand larceny" depending upon the market value of the item or items being stolen.

Therefore shoplifting penalties can depend on the amount and value of the goods that were stolen, whether or not the offender has shoplifted before and other factors.

Businesses provide jobs to those who live in the region where the business operates. If a region suffers from shoplifting and the shoplifting routinely goes unpunished, business will tend to move away. Without businesses operating locally, a region may suffer a rapid decline in the quality of life for its residents.

Therefore, while people often think of shoplifting as something "everyone does" at some time in their lives, law enforcement considers this a crime of significant consequence. The penalties can be harsh.

Shoplifting also has other potential associated charges. For example, if a person enters a store where they have been lawfully forbidden to return, they may be charged with "criminal trespass." If a person enters or remains in a store with the intent to commit a crime there, the charge of "burglary" may lie.

If you would like to learn more about shoplifting, you may wish to contact a qualified and experienced legal expert who can advise you of your legal rights and options. An attorney can help to protect and maximize your legal interests in a shoplifting case.

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