Retail Theft Penalties in Illinois

 Posted on June 01, 2023 in English

Retail theft is a serious offense that can have significant legal consequences in Illinois. Whether it involves shoplifting, employee theft, or other forms of retail fraud, understanding the penalties associated with these acts is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore retail theft penalties in Illinois, shedding light on the legal ramifications and emphasizing the importance of seeking professional legal assistance to navigate this challenging situation.

The Definition of Retail Theft in Illinois

In Illinois, retail theft is defined as the act of knowingly taking possession of, carrying away, or transferring any merchandise offered for sale with the intent to deprive the merchant of the full retail value of the item. This offense encompasses various actions, including shoplifting, changing packaging, making fake returns, altering price tags, employee theft, etc.

Classifications and Penalties for Retail Theft

Retail theft offenses in Illinois are classified based on the value of the stolen property and can range from misdemeanors to felonies. Let's examine the different classifications and their associated penalties:

Class A Misdemeanor Retail Theft

• Value of Stolen Property: Less than $300

• Penalties: Up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500

Felony Retail Theft

• Aggravated Retail Theft: Stolen property valued at $300 or more, or any theft committed by using an emergency exit

• Threshold Amounts and Consequences:

• Property valued between $300 and $10,000: Class 3 felony

• Property valued between $10,000 and $100,000: Class 2 felony

• Property valued over $100,000: Class 1 felony

• Penalties: Felony convictions can result in imprisonment ranging from two to 15 years, along with substantial fines.

Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders

Illinois has enhanced penalties for individuals with prior retail theft convictions:

Second Offense Retail Theft

• Misdemeanor to Felony Upgrade: A second offense elevates the charge from a misdemeanor to a felony, regardless of the value of the stolen property.

• Potential Incarceration and Fines: Penalties can include imprisonment of one to three years and fines of up to $25,000.

Subsequent Offenses

• Class 4 Felony Retail Theft: Any subsequent offense is charged as a Class 4 felony, regardless of the value of the stolen property.

• Potential Penalties for Repeat Offenders: Penalties may include imprisonment of one to three years and fines of up to $25,000.

Contact an Illinois Criminal Defense Attorney Today

When facing retail theft charges in Illinois, seeking legal counsel to protect your rights and build a strong defense is recommended. An experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. They will analyze the evidence and develop a strategic defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

J. Aldrich Law, P.C. can help with retail theft penalties in Illinois. If you are facing retail theft charges in Illinois, the legal team at J. Aldrich Law, P.C. is here to assist you. With our expertise in retail theft cases, we can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate this challenging situation. Contact us today at 630-953-3000.

Source: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=072000050K16-25