Shoplifting is not a specific charge under the Criminal Code, instead, it is a commonly used description for some forms of theft. Shoplifting is an extremely common offence throughout Alberta, especially in our larger urban centres. Many Albertans find themselves navigating the criminal justice system for the first time as a result of a shoplifting allegation.
Shoplifting occurs when items are taken from a store without paying for them, such as when someone conceals an item in a bag they are carrying or does not pay for an item at a self-checkout kiosk.
While you may still be charged with shoplifting if you genuinely forgot about an item underneath your cart, you are not necessarily guilty. It is important to call us at 780-686-7948. Mr. Rory Ziv will asses the case against you and will work with you to obtain the best possible result available to you, whether that is a withdrawal of the charge, assisting you in enrolling in the Alternative Measures Program (AMP), a reduction at sentencing or even a full acquittal at trial.
When You Are First Charged
If you are arrested for shoplifting, you may first be detained by a Loss Prevention Officer before Police arrive. Upon arrival of law enforcement, you may not be formally arrested. Instead, you may be given an Appearance Notice or Promise to Appear. If you are taken into police custody and formally arrested, you may be released on an Undertaking which may contain conditions. In some situations, such as in cases where someone is alleged to be a “repeat” offender, you may be detained and require a Bail Hearing. In this case, a Justice will decide whether you should be released prior to trial, and what conditions you must follow.
No matter this initial interaction with police, it is important to keep any documents you are provided. You will likely be released with the condition not to return to the store where the alleged shoplifting occurred. If you do not follow these conditions, you could face additional charges if you do not follow them
The store or business may also ban you from attending their stores for a period of time, whether you are eventually convicted or not.
It is important to keep any documents you are provided by police. These notices will inform you of the date and time of your first appearance in Court. You may also be required to attend a police station to provide fingerprints. If you do not, you could face additional charges as well.
It will also tell you which Courthouse to attend at. This may be a different Courthouse than where you live. For example, if you are charged with shoplifting from a store in West Edmonton Mall, you will likely be required to attend court in Edmonton, even if you live outside of the city.
What You Can Expect
It is important to contact us If you have been charged with shoplifting as a number of options may be available to you. Mr. Ziv will asses the case against you and work with you to obtain the best possible result available to you.
Alternative Measures Program
You may have heard of, or even been offered, the opportunity to take part in the Alternative Measures Program (AMP). This program is administered by the Crown Prosecutors’ Office with the intention to divert individuals charged with relatively minor offences from the criminal justice system. Once accepted into the program, you are required to successfully complete tasks as assigned by a probation officer, such as volunteering or even making a charitable donation.
Upon the successful completion of the program, the charges will be withdrawn with no finding of guilt or conviction. Before entering into the program, it is important to call us at 780-686-7948 so that Mr. Ziv can fully assess the case against you and advise if the program is the right option for you.
Sentencing and Other Information
For more information about possible sentencing outcomes for shoplifting, please see our article on thefts or contact us directly.