Repeat Offense Shoplifting
My question involves criminal law for the state of: west virgina. I got caught shoplifting at Walmart about 1 year ago the total of merchandise was 609.00. I paid a fine and Walmart off. Then today I got caught again the total was 106.00. Will I spend jail time for this.
Re: Repeat Offense Shoplifting
It is entirely possible the court may decide you need some time in jail since you apparently didn't learn your lesson previously.
Re: Repeat Offense Shoplifting
No one here can tell you if you will serve time in jail for it. That will depend on the judge who sentences you. However, I can tell you that on a second conviction of shoplifting in West Virginia where the amount taken is $500 or less then the penalty the court may impose is a fine of at least $100 but not more than $500, a jail sentence of up to 6 months in jail, or both. In addition, you will owe the merchant double the value of the items taken. West Virginia Code § 61-3A-3(b) & (d).
Some judges will basically take the approach that letting you off with a fine the first time wasn’t enough to make an impression on you and decide that putting you in jail for a few days, weeks, or months might be what it takes to deter you from continuing to steal.