Retail fraud is a crime involving deceptive practices aimed at obtaining goods, services or financial benefit from a retail establishment through unlawful means. This can encompass various forms of deceit or misrepresentation, including theft, forgery, counterfeiting or false pretenses.
If you are charged with retail fraud, it is important to understand the different degrees of the offense to help ensure that you receive fair treatment and representation during the legal process. Retail fraud is typically categorized into three degrees, each risking different levels of severity and potential penalties.
1st-Degree retail fraud
The most serious of the three degrees of retail fraud, 1st-degree retail fraud is treated as a felony and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, 2 years of probation and $10,000 in fines ( or three times the value of the stolen goods). This degree of retail fraud typically involves theft of goods valued at $1,000 or more or a second offense with the value of goods stolen between $200 and $1,000.
2nd- Degree retail fraud
2nd-degree retail fraud in Michigan is treated as a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in jail, 2 years probation and a $2,000 fine (or three times the value of the items obtained through fraudulent means). This degree of retail fraud involves theft of goods valued between $200 and $1,000 for a first offense or theft of goods valued below $200 for a second offense.
3rd-Degree retail fraud
Considered the least serious of the three degrees, 3rd-degree retail fraud is also treated as a misdemeanor in Michigan. It carries penalties of up to 93 days in jail, 1 year of probation and a $500 fine (or three times the value of the stolen items). This degree of retail fraud typically involves theft of goods valued at less than $200 for a first offense.
If you have been charged with retail fraud, seeking legal counsel is crucial to helping ensure your rights are protected and that you receive proper guidance throughout the legal process, so don’t delay in this regard.