Christmas is a time of holiday cheer and gift giving, but it can also be a time when shoplifting and other theft crimes become more prevalent. Stealing during the holiday season may be tempting because someone wants to buy a gift for someone but can’t afford it. Or, perhaps in the harried atmosphere of last minute shopping, they exit a store and simply forget to pay for an item. Even if the “theft” is accidental, those caught will need the services of Phoenix criminal defense lawyers because it’s important that these cases are resolved fairly.
Common Theft-related Crimes that Occur around Christmas time
Stealing from vehicles.
Holiday shopping means that crowds of people are out at malls and other stores. Unfortunately, it also means that gifts can disappear, via theft, from vehicles, especially if distracted shoppers leave vehicles unlocked. Often, shoppers drop purchases off at cars, and then return to the store to shop more. Those gifts become targets for criminals. Be careful not to fall into this trap yourself – and if you find yourself or a loved one accused of this kind of theft, contact Phoenix criminal defense lawyers right away.
Shoplifting.
As mentioned above, shoplifting can be intentional or accidental. However, it’s also important to know that “shoplifting” doesn’t just entail taking merchandise out of a store without paying for it. It can also mean:
- Charging the purchase to a person who doesn’t exist (is fictitious).
- Charging the purchase to an existing person without their permission.
- Paying less than the purchase price by altering, removing, or switching the price tag.
- Transferring items from one package or container to another to hide the actual value of the item.
Regardless of how the shoplifting happens, anyone accused should contact a Phoenix criminal defense attorney at Lerner and Rowe Law Group as soon as they’re able after their arrest.
Pickpocketing.
People who shop with cash during the holidays are especially at risk of being pick-pocketed. Namely because cash can’t be traced. However, credit card theft is also common.
Stealing packages from porches.
Online shopping is increasingly popular, which also means stealing unattended packages from porches is increasingly common. That’s especially true during the holidays when deliveries are at their height. It’s not worth a criminal record to steal a neighbor’s latest Amazon delivery – but for those who do (or are innocent but accused of doing so), our Phoenix criminal defense lawyers will protect clients’ rights to ensure a just result.
Stealing holiday decorations.
Although often not done because the item is coveted as other kinds of Christmas stealing are, holiday decoration theft may also be a temptation for many. Your teenager, for example, may think it’s funny to steal lights, wreaths, figures, or other holiday ornamentation. You’ll still need to hire Phoenix criminal defense lawyers to represent your child in court, however; that’s no laughing matter.
Charged with Christmas stealing of some kind? Let Phoenix criminal defense lawyers help.
On the Naughty List with the Law? Contact Our Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyers
There may be charges ranging from misdemeanor to a felony theft depending on its seriousness; there may even be prison time. Don’t risk it. Don’t lie to police if there has been stealing, because that could result in yet more serious charges. Instead, exercise your right to remain silent, and then call our Phoenix criminal defense lawyers immediately at 602-667-7777. Our office hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but we are available 24/ to take your call. Or access our LiveChat any time. We offer an initial free consultation and affordable payment plans. Contact us now!