Shoplifting and Theft Charges for Juveniles in Georgia

Shoplifting and Theft Charges for Juveniles in Georgia

Shoplifting and theft can be scary charges for juveniles in Georgia. I know, I was once a teenager who made some dumb mistakes. We all mess up sometimes. This article will explain Georgia laws on juvenile shoplifting and theft, what charges juveniles may face, defenses that could help, and what parents can do to support their kid. I’ll try to keep it real and talk to you like a friend.

First up, shoplifting basically means taking merchandise from a store without paying. Theft is taking someone else’s property without permission. Both are crimes in Georgia that can lead to juvenile court.

Shoplifting Charges for Juveniles

In Georgia, shoplifting falls under the theft laws in O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14. This law says it’s shoplifting if someone takes store items “with the intent of appropriating merchandise to his or her own use without paying.”

Some examples are:

• Putting merchandise in your pocket or bag
• Changing price tags to pay less
• Transferring items from one container to another

Shoplifting anything under $500 is a misdemeanor. But if the stuff is worth more, it becomes a felony charge.

Here’s how the charges work for juveniles:

• 1st offense – Up to 1 year in juvenile detention
• 2nd offense – At least 30 days locked up
• 3rd offense – Felony charge, 1-10 years prison

The punishments get real serious real fast. Parents, keep close tabs on your kids and their friends if you suspect shoplifting. Don’t let it spiral.

Theft Charges for Juveniles

In Georgia, theft is taking someone’s property without permission, with the purpose of keeping it. Some examples are:

• Stealing a bike
• Taking money or jewelry from someone’s house
• “Borrowing” a parent’s car without asking

Like shoplifting, theft charges depend on the value of what was taken:

• Under $500 – Misdemeanor, up to 1 year detention
• Over $500 – Felony, 1-10 years prison

So small thefts can lead to big punishments. Also, repeat offenses make penalties worse, like with shoplifting.

Defenses for Juveniles

If your kid gets charged, don’t panic! There are defenses a lawyer could use:

• Mistake – Thought you paid or had permission
• False accusation – Didn’t do it, someone else did
• Mental illness – Didn’t understand because of a condition

A good juvenile defense lawyer will investigate the facts and fight to get charges lowered or dropped. Act fast if your kid is charged.

What Parents Can Do

If your kid shoplifts or steals, here are some tips:

• Stay calm – Getting angry won’t help
• Listen – Let them explain why they did it
• Set rules – Make consequences clear if it happens again
• Get counseling – A therapist can address underlying issues
• Volunteer – Give back to the community together

Shoplifting and theft are common mistakes kids make. With support from family and professionals, juveniles can learn and move forward.

I hope this gives you a better idea of juvenile shoplifting and theft laws in Georgia. Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m happy to help however I can.