Is it wise to cop a plea or deny the charge

What are the odds of not being convicted...?
Having been charged for retail theft at a Wal-Mart store (second similar offence), what is the percentage of cases that are found not guilty or dismissed because the DA was unable to prove their case?
For example, failure to have the arresting officer or store security witness show up for trial, lack of video evidence or some other unforeseen screw up.
Do they often run a bluff offering the plea for the sure conviction?
Facing a second conviction and having learned the lesson, the stakes are much higher now, and it would sure be nice to sidestep this conviction. So I ask you again, what are the odds of not being convicted...?

Determination of the odds of not being convicted in a specific case is a fact-specific determination - one you should discuss with your lawyer.

Most people accused of shoplifting are convicted, whether by plea or by trial. The exact percentages will vary by state, county, court, and even by judge.