Shoplifting Defense Lawyer in Missouri

Shoplifting Defense Lawyer serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and ALL of Missouri.

Combs Waterkotte is the leading Shoplifting Defense Law Firm serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and the entire state of Missouri.

Shoplifting Defense Lawyer in Missouri

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Depending on the value of the goods stolen, shoplifting can land you in jail in Missouri. If you are facing shoplifting charges, you need the skilled Missouri criminal defense team at Combs Waterkotte in your corner. Our attorneys have extensive experience building successful defenses against shoplifting charges in Missouri, and we know how to effectively navigate the complexities of Missouri law to secure the outcome that best protects your future.

Defining Shoplifting in Missouri

Although shoplifting sounds like a modern term, it originated in England during the 1600s and initially referred to stealing from shops and warehouses. The modern version of shoplifting is less clearly defined. In fact, Missouri does not have a dedicated shoplifting statute.

Instead, it falls under Missouri’s general stealing laws. While shoplifting has no standalone legal definition, it usually involves:

• Stealing goods from an open store
• Concealing items on the body, in a bag, or among purchases
• Switching price tags to pay less
• Trying on merchandise and leaving the store wearing it

Importantly, shoplifting does not usually involve force or threats. If violence is involved, the offense may escalate to robbery — a much more serious charge.

Shoplifting can be impulsive or planned. Charges can be filed even if you return the item later, and high-value items such as jewelry, electronics, and gift cards are common targets due to their portability and resale value.

Laws Against Shoplifting in Missouri

Missouri’s theft offenses are contained in Chapter 570 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. Instead of separate statutes for each theft-related offense, Missouri uses one broad statute for stealing, covering shoplifting, fraud, extortion, and more. Stealing occurs when:

• A person appropriates (takes possession of) property
• The property belongs to someone else
• The accused intends to deprive the owner of the property
• The act is done without the owner’s consent

Prosecutors must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. The statute does not require concealment or that the owner be a store — meaning any theft from any person or business can qualify.

“Deprive” under the statute includes:

• Permanently withholding property
• Returning property only for compensation
• Using or disposing of property in a way that prevents its return

Penalties for Shoplifting and Related Charges in Missouri

The severity of shoplifting penalties depends on the value of the stolen items, the circumstances of the case, and whether the accused has prior theft offenses. Higher-value thefts and repeat offenses result in harsher penalties.

• Shoplifting under $150 (first offense): Class D misdemeanor; $500 fine; no jail.
• Shoplifting $150+ (first offense) or second offense: Class A misdemeanor; up to 1 year in jail.
• Third theft offense within 10 years: Class E felony; up to 4 years in prison.
• Shoplifting $750+, a firearm, or meth precursors: Class D felony; up to 7 years in prison.
• Shoplifting $25,000 or more: Class C felony; 3–10 years in prison.

Related Theft Defense Practice Areas

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