Schaumburg Retail Theft Cases

If you have been charged with Retail Theft in Schaumburg, Illinois, you need an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. I am James Dimeas, a Schaumburg Retail Theft Defense Attorney with over 30 years of experience successfully representing clients facing Retail Theft charges in Schaumburg and throughout Cook County, Illinois. My experience, dedication, and aggressive approach to criminal defense have earned me a reputation as one of the top criminal defense attorneys in the area. Retail Theft is a serious criminal charge that can have significant and long-lasting consequences. I understand how to fight Retail Theft cases and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding Retail Theft Charges in Schaumburg

Retail Theft, commonly known as shoplifting, is defined under Illinois law as the act of knowingly taking merchandise from a retail establishment without paying for it or with the intent to deprive the merchant of the full value of the goods. Retail Theft can occur in many ways, including:

1. Physically Taking Merchandise: Removing items from a store without paying.
2. Altering or Removing Price Tags: Changing or removing tags to pay a lower price.
3. Switching Packaging: Placing merchandise into different containers to avoid detection.
4. Under-ringing Merchandise: Causing the cash register to record a lower price.
5. Use of Theft Detection Shielding Devices: Using devices to block security sensors.

In Schaumburg, Retail Theft can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the merchandise and the defendant’s criminal history. Merchandise valued at less than $300 is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor, while merchandise valued at $300 or more may result in felony charges.

Penalties for Retail Theft in Schaumburg

Retail Theft is taken very seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors in Schaumburg and throughout Cook County. Penalties for Retail Theft can be severe and may include:

• Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Class 4 Felony: 1 to 3 years in prison and fines up to $25,000 for merchandise valued at $300 or more.
• Enhanced Felony Charges: If you have prior Retail Theft convictions, you could face enhanced felony charges, regardless of the merchandise value.

In addition to criminal penalties, a Retail Theft conviction can lead to other long-term consequences, such as a permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, and damage to your personal and professional reputation.

Defending Retail Theft Charges in Schaumburg

As a Schaumburg Retail Theft Defense Attorney with decades of experience, I have developed effective defense strategies to challenge these charges. Each case is unique, and I will meticulously analyze the evidence, witness statements, and police reports to build a strong defense on your behalf. Common defenses to Retail Theft charges include:

• Lack of Intent: Retail Theft requires intent to permanently deprive the retailer of the merchandise. If you accidentally left the store without paying or had no intent to steal, you may have a valid defense.
• Mistaken Identity: Retail Theft cases often rely on surveillance video or eyewitness testimony, which can be unreliable or unclear. I will challenge the accuracy of such evidence if it misidentifies you.
• Procedural Errors: Police and loss prevention officers must follow proper procedures during an arrest and investigation. If your constitutional rights were violated or if the evidence was improperly obtained, I will seek to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
• Merchandise Recovery: In some cases, returning the merchandise or resolving the matter with the retailer can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.

Why Hire James Dimeas as Your Schaumburg Retail Theft Defense Attorney?

Choosing the right attorney to defend you against Retail Theft charges is critical to the outcome of your case. Here are a few reasons why clients throughout Schaumburg and Cook County trust me to handle their Retail Theft cases:

1. Proven Track Record: With over 30 years of experience, I have successfully defended numerous clients charged with Retail Theft.
2. Personalized Attention: I understand the stress and anxiety that come with criminal charges. I will personally handle your case, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the legal process.
3. Aggressive Defense: I am committed to fighting for your rights and will use my extensive legal knowledge and resources to build the strongest possible defense.
4. Local Knowledge: As a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Schaumburg and Cook County, I am familiar with the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This local experience can be invaluable when developing a defense strategy.

Retail Theft Charges and Schaumburg’s Shopping Centers

Schaumburg is home to Woodfield Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, as well as numerous retail stores, including big-box retailers, department stores, and specialty shops. As a result, Schaumburg sees a high volume of Retail Theft cases each year. Local law enforcement and loss prevention officers aggressively monitor stores and pursue Retail Theft charges. If you are arrested for Retail Theft at Woodfield Mall or any other Schaumburg retail establishment, you need an experienced Schaumburg Retail Theft Defense Attorney like me to protect your rights.

The Criminal Process for Retail Theft Cases in Schaumburg

If you are charged with Retail Theft in Schaumburg, your case will typically be heard at the Rolling Meadows Courthouse, which handles criminal cases from Schaumburg and surrounding communities. The legal process can be complex and intimidating, but I will be with you every step of the way. Here is a brief overview of the process:

1. Arrest and Booking: If you are arrested for Retail Theft, you will be taken to the Schaumburg Police Department for booking.
2. Bond Hearing: You will appear before a judge who will set your bond and determine whether you will be released pending trial.
3. Pre-Trial Proceedings: This phase involves discovery, motions, and negotiations with the prosecution.
4. Trial: If your case goes to trial, I will aggressively defend you in court.
5. Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will follow. However, my goal is to avoid a conviction whenever possible.

Contact a Schaumburg Retail Theft Defense Attorney Today

Being charged with Retail Theft in Schaumburg is a serious matter that requires immediate attention. Don’t let a Retail Theft charge jeopardize your future. James Dimeas is a dedicated and experienced Schaumburg Retail Theft Defense Attorney who understands the law and knows how to fight these charges. Mr. Dimeas will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible result for your case.

Contact me today at 847-807-7405 to schedule a free consultation. Together, we will fight your Retail Theft charges and work to secure your future. Your defense starts here.