Illinois Shoplifting Laws: What You Need to Know

Shoplifting in Illinois comes with significant legal consequences if you are found guilty. Whether it’s taking merchandise without paying or altering price tags, shoplifting comes with a range of adverse penalties that can have lasting impacts on your life and the lives of your loved ones.

This blog post will explore the shoplifting laws in Illinois, the penalties for violating these laws, and the broader implications of committing this crime.

Shoplifting Laws in Illinois

In our state, shoplifting is categorized under theft laws, specifically the Illinois Compiled Statutes (720 ILCS 5/16-25). The law defines shoplifting as knowingly taking possession of, carrying away, transferring, or causing to be carried away or transferred any retail merchandise to deprive the merchant of the total retail value.

Shoplifting can take several forms, including:

Concealing Merchandise. Hiding items with the intent to steal.

Switching Price Tags. Altering the price tag means paying less for an item.

Removing Security Devices. Tampering with or removing security tags to avoid detection.

Using a Device. Employing a tool or device to facilitate theft, such as a booster bag.

Penalties for Shoplifting in Illinois

The severity of penalties for shoplifting in Illinois depends on the value of the stolen merchandise and the offender’s prior criminal record. An accusation of serial shoplifting can also impact the charges and penalties you face. The state classifies theft crimes based on the value of the stolen items, with penalties increasing as the value increases.

Theft of Merchandise Valued at $500 or Less – Class A Misdemeanor

If the value of the stolen merchandise is $500 or less and the offender has no prior theft-related convictions, the crime is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. The penalties for a Class A misdemeanor include up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Theft of Merchandise Valued Between $500 and $10,000 – Class 3 Felony

If the value of the stolen merchandise is between $500 and $10,000, the crime is considered a Class 3 felony. This is especially applicable if the offender has a prior theft-related conviction. Penalties include 2 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.

Theft of Merchandise Valued Between $10,000 and $100,000 – Class 2 Felony

If the value of the stolen merchandise falls between $10,000 and $100,000, it is classified as a Class 2 felony. Penalties for a Class 2 felony include 3 to 7 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.

Theft of Merchandise Valued Over $100,000 – Class 1 Felony

Shoplifting merchandise valued over $100,000 is a Class 1 felony, one of the most severe categories. Penalties include 4 to 15 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can elevate the severity of shoplifting charges, leading to harsher penalties. For example, If the offender uses an emergency exit to commit theft, the crime is upgraded to a felony, regardless of the merchandise’s value.

Involvement in a coordinated effort to steal merchandise, such as being part of a shoplifting ring, can also lead to more severe charges.

Civil Penalties

In addition to criminal penalties, Illinois law allows retailers to seek civil damages from individuals caught shoplifting. Under the Illinois Civil Liability Law (720 ILCS 5/16A-7), retailers can demand payment for the stolen merchandise’s value, plus additional damages up to $1,000 and attorney fees.

Long-Term Consequences

Beyond fines and imprisonment, a shoplifting conviction can have lasting consequences. A criminal record can hinder employment opportunities, affect housing applications, and limit access to certain professional licenses. For minors, a shoplifting conviction can also impact educational opportunities and scholarships.

In short, in Illinois, shoplifting is a crime with significant legal and personal consequences. Whether it involves a minor item or something of substantial value, the penalties are severe and can have long-lasting effects on one’s life. Understanding the laws and consequences is crucial for anyone facing charges and looking to fight back.