Schaumburg Shoplifting Cases

Shoplifting Charges in Schaumburg, Illinois: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in Schaumburg, Illinois, you’re probably feeling stressed, anxious, and uncertain about what comes next. As a criminal defense attorney who has handled countless shoplifting cases in Schaumburg and throughout Cook County for over 32 years, I understand the fear and confusion that comes with being accused of a crime. My name is James Dimeas, and I’ve spent my legal career helping people just like you fight criminal charges and move forward with their lives. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shoplifting cases in Schaumburg, how the court process works, possible penalties and enhancements, and why hiring an experienced shoplifting lawyer in Schaumburg is essential to protecting your rights and your future.

Understanding Shoplifting Charges in Schaumburg

Shoplifting, also referred to as retail theft in Illinois, is covered under 720 ILCS 5/16-25 of the Illinois Criminal Code. It generally involves knowingly taking possession of, carrying away, transferring, or causing merchandise to be carried away from a retail establishment without paying the full retail value. Shoplifting also includes actions such as switching price tags, under-ringing items at a self-checkout, or using deception to avoid payment.

In Schaumburg, shoplifting cases commonly occur at Woodfield Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Illinois, as well as at surrounding big-box retailers like Target, Walmart, Macy’s, and Kohl’s. Because these retailers have loss prevention teams and surveillance systems in place, arrests for retail theft happen frequently.

Court Location for Schaumburg Shoplifting Cases

If you are arrested for shoplifting in Schaumburg, your case will most likely be heard at the Cook County Circuit Court located in the Rolling Meadows Courthouse. The address is:

Cook County Circuit Court – Second Municipal District 2121 Euclid Avenue Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

This courthouse handles criminal misdemeanor and felony cases for Schaumburg and several surrounding suburbs in the northwest suburbs of Cook County.

Types of Shoplifting Charges in Schaumburg

The severity of a shoplifting charge depends on the value of the merchandise allegedly stolen and whether the accused has any prior theft convictions.

• Misdemeanor Shoplifting: If the value of the stolen merchandise is under $300 (or $150 for motor fuel), you’ll likely be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. This is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. First-time offenders may qualify for diversion or deferred prosecution programs.
• Felony Shoplifting: If the value exceeds $300, or if you have a prior conviction for theft-related offenses, you may face a felony charge. A Class 4 felony carries 1 to 3 years in prison, while more serious felony charges (Class 3 or higher) can carry even longer prison terms.

Possible Enhancements in Schaumburg Shoplifting Cases

In some cases, a shoplifting charge can be enhanced based on specific factors, including:

• Use of an emergency exit: If you allegedly left a store through an emergency exit during the commission of the theft, the charge can be upgraded to a felony.
• Prior convictions: A previous retail theft or theft-related conviction can elevate a misdemeanor retail theft to a felony.
• Organized shoplifting crime: If the prosecution believes you were acting in concert with others to steal items for resale, you could be charged with organized shoplifting crime, which carries more serious consequences.
• Use of a theft detection shielding device: Possession or use of a device meant to bypass security sensors or remove security tags can result in an additional charge or enhancement.

The Legal Process for Schaumburg Shoplifting Cases

Once arrested, you will either be released with a court date or held until you can appear before a judge. At the Rolling Meadows Courthouse, your case will go through several stages:

1. Arraignment: You’ll be informed of the charges against you and enter a plea.
2. Pre-trial Hearings: Your attorney may file motions, negotiate with the prosecution, or explore options like diversion programs or plea deals.
3. Trial: If your case goes to trial, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney will challenge the evidence and present a defense.
4. Sentencing: If convicted, the court will determine your sentence based on various factors, including the value of the stolen items, your criminal history, and whether any enhancements apply.

Defenses to Shoplifting Charges

Every case is unique, and a skilled Schaumburg shoplifting defense attorney will evaluate the facts to build a strong defense. Common defenses to shopplifting include:

• Lack of intent: Forgetting to pay for an item or mistakenly leaving a store with unpaid merchandise is not the same as intentional theft.
• Mistaken identity: Surveillance footage or witness statements may misidentify the suspect.
• Illegal search or seizure: If your rights were violated during your detention or arrest, certain evidence may be inadmissible.
• Faulty evidence: Security video, witness statements, or inventory records may be unreliable or incomplete.

Why Hire a Schaumburg Shoplifting Attorney?

Shoplifting charges may seem minor, but the consequences can be life-altering. A conviction for shoplifting can appear on your criminal record, making it difficult to find employment, housing, or educational opportunities. Felony convictions are especially damaging and carry long-term repercussions.

As a seasoned Schaumburg criminal defense lawyer, I understand how the local courts operate, how prosecutors handle shoplifting cases, and how to negotiate favorable outcomes for my clients. In many cases, I’ve been able to:

• Get charges reduced or dismissed
• Secure participation in theft education or diversion programs
• Prevent clients from having a permanent criminal record
• Keep clients out of jail

Expungement and Record Sealing

If you were arrested for shoplifting but your case was dismissed, or if you successfully completed a diversion program, you may be eligible to have your arrest or conviction expunged or sealed. This process removes the record from public view, helping you move forward without the stigma of a criminal past. I regularly assist clients in Schaumburg and across Cook County with expungements and record sealing.

Contact an Experienced Schaumburg Shoplifting Lawyer Today

If you’re facing shoplifting charges in Schaumburg, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact James Dimeas today for a free and confidential consultation.

Call me directly at 847-807-7405 or fill out the contact form on my website. I offer honest advice, aggressive defense, and a track record of success in Schaumburg shoplifting cases.

Let’s take the first step toward putting this behind you.