Bill > S0822

This bill amends existing shoplifting laws to create a new felony offense when two or more individuals collaborate to commit shoplifting. Currently, shoplifting is typically classified as a misdemeanor, with potential elevation to a felony for repeat offenders or when the merchandise value exceeds $100. The new provision specifically targets group shoplifting efforts, allowing prosecutors to charge participants as a coordinated group with a felony, even if the individual value of stolen items might not otherwise qualify. Under this bill, if two or more people work together to shoplift - whether by coordinating to remove items, altering price tags, transferring merchandise between containers, or any other shoplifting method defined in the existing law - they can be prosecuted as a felony offense. The potential punishment for this new felony includes a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both. This change aims to create a stronger legal deterrent against organized shoplifting activities and provide law enforcement with additional tools to prosecute group theft incidents.

Justice

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