JOHNSON COUNTY, KANSAS SHOPLIFTING, PETTY THEFT & DEFENSES

Under Kansas law, you can be found guilt of shoplifting, a petty theft, if you (or a minor that you are the parent or guardian of) take the property of another with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner.  Oftentimes, you will not be arrested for this crime; rather, you will be given a date to appear in court. Many may advise you that there is no jail time associated with these charges but, that is inaccurate.

Kansas Shoplifting/Petty Theft Penalties

• two times the retail cost of the item, or $50, up to $500, so long as the merchandise can be resold
• $50 or 50% of the retail cost of the item, whichever is greater, up to $350 if the item cannot be resold
• shop owner's attorney fees 
• court costs
• one year jail and up to $2500 fines
• If you have prior theft convictions, or pending ones, and the value of the item is less than $1000 (normally a Class A misdemeanor) the charge may escalate to a level 9 felony, punishable by up to 7 months in jail.

Kansas Shoplifting/ Petty Theft Defenses

• rights to or ownership 
• intoxication
• return of property
• entrapment

If you are being accused of shoplifting or petty theft, in Johnson County, or across the state of Kansas you need a lawyer NOW. Even if you only were given a ticket and gave the item back, your freedom and future are on the line. We are available to answer your questions 7 days a week, and we offer payment plans. Call today 913.602.7288.
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