Retail theft, also known as shoplifting, is a serious crime in Wisconsin. It can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of the item allegedly stolen.
Elements of a Retail Theft or Shoplifting
To find you guilty of retail theft, the prosecutor must prove that:
- You intentionally altered the price or value, took, carried away, transferred, concealed, retained possession of, removed a theft detection device, used or possessed property belonging to a merchant AND
- You did so without the merchant’s consent AND
- You acted with the intent to deprive the merchant permanently of its possession
Penalties of Retail Theft/Shoplifting in Wisconsin
| Value of the Property | Maximum Penalty |
| Less than $2,500 | 9 months in jail and a $10,000 fine (Misdemeanor) |
| From $2,500 to $5,000 | 3 years and 6 months in prison and a $10,000 fine (Felony) |
| From $5,000 to $10,000 | 6 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 (Felony) |
| Greater than $10,000 | 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine (Felony) |
Contact an Attorney to Represent Your Freedom and Your Interests!
If you are accused of retail theft or shoplifting, you need an experienced criminal attorney to protect your freedom and your rights. For a consultation with one of our criminal law attorneys at Doar, Drill & Skow, call 877-890-7934 toll free or contact us online. Located in New Richmond, we serve clients throughout western Wisconsin.
