Woman shoplifting a t-shirt off a hanger

Holiday Shoplifting in Tennessee

The holidays are a time to spend with family and friends and may include exchanging gifts. Very rarely will anyone ask how a gift was purchased, so you would not know if that gift was taken illegally.

Shoplifting tends to increase around the holidays for these three reasons.

1. Busy Stores

Stores are bustling with shoppers, especially around the holidays. That means employees are busy checking out merchandise and restocking. If an item doesn’t have a security tag or no one is looking, someone can swipe a product without being detected.

2. Colder Weather

More people are looking for indoor activities, like shopping, when the weather turns colder. Additionally, with customers wearing coats and other bulky clothing, it can be simple to hide something underneath that clothing.

3. Personal Need

As shared at the beginning, someone who may not be able to afford the “perfect” gift or a gift may take something to fulfill that desire to give someone a present. Additionally, money can be tight for some around the holidays. Individuals could take an item to maintain their quality of life.

Consequences for Shoplifting

Tennessee outlines what is considered shoplifting in Tennessee Code Title 39. Criminal Offenses § 39-14-146. The exact charge someone faces depends on the item’s value.

  • Class A misdemeanor: when the value is $500 or less;
  • Class E felony: when the value is more than $500 but less than $1,000;
  • Class D felony: when the value is more than $1,000 but less than $10,000;
  • Class C felony: when the value is more than $10,000 but less than $60,000;
  • Class B felony: when the value is more than $60,000 but less than $250,000; and,
  • Class A felony: when the value is more than $250,000.

Accused of Shoplifting in Tennessee?

No matter what shoplifting charge you face, you can expect serious consequences if found guilty. Don’t let an accusation hurt your personal and professional life — contact Meade Law Group. Our experienced criminal defense team is ready to help you. Reach out online or by phone today so we can start working on your case.

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