Can a store track you down for stealing?

Many retailers, especially large department and grocery stores, use video surveillance. Some stores even have facial recognition software so they can easily identify people from the surveillance videos. Many locally-owned stores use social media to track down shoplifters.

What happens when u get caught shoplifting?

Shoplifting is usually treated as a misdemeanor — unless you have some major prior convictions — punishable by a half-year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000.

What happens if you get caught stealing from a store?

The store will present their evidence to the local police department when they are ready to file charges. The police will then refer the case to a prosecutor, who will work with the court to issue you a Notice to Appear. If it was a felony theft, you could receive an arrest warrant.

Can you be arrested for shoplifting after you leave the store?

Hypothetically, you enter a store, steal a few items, and you exit the store without being caught. Can you still be arrested for shoplifting afterward? The quick answer is, yes! In many cases, a place of business will wait until the shoplifter has left the front door (s) before approaching them.

What are my rights if I’m caught with stolen merchandise?

If you do have stolen merchandise on your person and it’s discovered by store security or the police if they’re called, the store has the right to have you arrested and charged with theft. You, then, have the right to not incriminate yourself and to obtain legal representation.

Is it stealing if you pick up an item and conceal it?

If someone were to pick up an item and conceal it, but then pay for it prior to exiting the store, this would not be stealing. Instead, this would be a questionable shopping practice that is frowned upon by business owners.