Penalties for Shoplifting an Inexpensive Item

Q: What is the lowest charge for theft?

The lowest charge for theft in Kentucky is usually a Class A misdemeanor, which applies when the value of the stolen property is less than $300. If the value is under $10, it may be charged as a violation, which carries lesser penalties.

Q: What are the statistics for shoplifting by age?

Statistics show that shoplifting occurs across various age groups, but younger individuals, particularly those aged 18 to 24, are often involved. This demographic tends to account for a significant portion of shoplifting incidents, which can lead to legal consequences like misdemeanors in Kentucky.

Q: What happens if you steal $10?

If you steal $10 worth of items in Kentucky, it could be classified as theft. Since the value is under $300, it would likely be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, which may result in penalties such as fines or jail time, depending on the circumstances.

Q: What happens if you steal a $5 item?

Stealing a $5 item in Kentucky is still considered theft. While it falls below the $10 threshold that might lead to lesser penalties, it would typically be charged as a Class A misdemeanor due to the value being under $300. Legal consequences could include fines or other penalties.

Full question:

I was caught shoplifting roughly $5.69 worth of cough medicine. I am twenty years old and have no legal record other than this. What is the worst they can do to me?

Category: Criminal
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Kentucky

Answer:

The following is a KY statute:

514.030 Theft by unlawful taking or disposition -- Penalties.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in KRS 217.181 or 218A.1418, a person is guilty of
theft by unlawful taking or disposition when he unlawfully:

(a) Takes or exercises control over movable property of another with intent to
deprive him thereof; or

(b) Obtains immovable property of another or any interest therein with intent to
benefit himself or another not entitled thereto.

(2) Theft by unlawful taking or disposition is a Class A misdemeanor unless the value
of the property is three hundred dollars ($300) or more, in which case it is a Class D
felony; or unless:

(a) The property is a firearm (regardless of the value of the firearm), in which
case it is a Class D felony; or

(b) The property is anhydrous ammonia (regardless of the value of the ammonia),
in which case it is a Class D felony unless it is proven that the person violated
this section with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine in violation of
KRS 218A.1432, in which case it is a Class B felony for the first offense and a
Class A felony for each subsequent offense.

Effective: July 14, 2000

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is the average amount stolen when shoplifting occurs?

The average amount stolen during shoplifting incidents varies, but studies suggest it often falls between $100 and $200. However, many shoplifting cases involve items valued under $50. In Kentucky, the value of stolen property is crucial, as theft under $300 is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor.