Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft retail theft

[tallasian88]

Jurisdiction

Illinois

My question is regarding retail theft, pushing a shopping cart full of booze at a very big Retail supermarket, my partner says he never walked out of the building with the booze he was pushing in his cart, this being a very big grocery chain, Thurs employees giving samples in almost every corner of the store, there was a greater near the exit of the store offering samples, he wanted to grab a sample, however on film it seems like his car when he was pushing it was heading towards the exit, as if he was attempting to steal the booze. He was arrested and charged with a felony because the amount I think was over $300. Does he have a chance of beating this case? Because he technically didn't leave the store with the product, although on video it seems as if he's walking out with the product, but the exit doors were a good 15 to 20 feet away. Any feedback would be great

 

[army judge]

Contrary to common misperception the alleged THIEF and the alleged purloined goods aren't required to leave the store to rise to the level of theft.

That said, I suggest you tell him to appear in court, plead NOT guilty, and not to discuss any aspect of the case.

Doing what you did here, trying to explain would only hurt his case, not help it.

He as the right to remain silent and should adhere to silence.

Once he pleads not guilty, he should ask if he's eligible for court appointed, taxpayer funded counsel.

Once he gets a lawyer, he should discuss that case only with the lawyer, his or her lawyer.

 

[shrinkmaster]

I am a Retail Theft consultant and answer questions like yours daily. As stated you do NOT have to exit store to be charged with theft. Some states concealment alone is a crime. If your partner passed the last point of sale he can be charged. Far as what can be done he needs to discuss that with an Attorney.

 

[Betty3]

He needs to talk to a lawyer & only to the lawyer. If he cannot afford one, he should go to court on the scheduled date, plead not guilty & request a public defender. The lawyer or PD will discuss his options with him.