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Shoplifting
The act of shoplifting or stealing from a merchant in North Carolina can include various different types of crimes with specific punishments for each. Common examples of shoplifting or stealing from a merchant include larceny from a merchant, shoplifting by concealing merchandise, shoplifting by concealing merchandise using a lead or aluminum lined bag, and shoplifting by substation of prices.
Shoplifting by Concealing Merchandise
Under North Carolina General Statute 14-72.1 occurs when a person (1) willfully conceals (2) goods or merchandise of a store (3) without authority, (4) without having purchased the goods or merchandise, and (5) while still on the premises of the store. Shoplifting by concealing merchandise is a class 3 misdemeanor with a maximum punishment under the law of 20 days incarceration and a maximum fine of $200.
Shoplifting by Concealing Merchandise Using a Lead or Aluminum Lined Bag
Under North Carolina General Statute 14-72.1 occurs when a person (1) willfully conceals (2) goods or merchandise of a store (3) without authority, (4) without having purchased the goods or merchandise, and (5) while still on the premises of the store and (6) uses a lead-lined or aluminum-lined bag, article of clothing, or similar device (7) to prevent the activation of any anti-shoplifting or inventory control device. Shoplifting by concealing merchandise using a lead or aluminum lined bag is a class H felony with a maximum punishment under the law of 39 months incarceration.
Shoplifting by Substitution of Prices
Under North Carolina General Statute 14-72.1(d) occurs when a person (1) willfully (2) transfers a price tag from goods or merchandise to other goods or merchandise having a higher selling price, marks goods or merchandise at a lower price, or places a false price tag on goods or merchandise (3) without authority and (4) then presents the goods for purchase. Shoplifting by substitution of prices is a class 3 misdemeanor with a maximum punishment under the law of 20 days incarceration and a maximum fine of $200.