Shoplifting Turned Robbery in Freehold NJ
I have previously authored articles regarding how a disorderly persons offense of shoplifting can be transformed into a Second Degree Robbery. I just read an article in the Asbury Park Press where a shoplifting charge in Monmouth County was transformed into a Robbery under the circumstances which I previously contemplated.
The shoplifter was attempting to conceal steaks and a sponge, but was apprehended by store employees. The suspect did not, however, submit and attempted to escape. A store employee was injured during the course of attempting to restrain and/or apprehend the suspect. The suspect has been charged with not only shoplifting but robbery. His case is scheduled to be heard in Monmouth County Superior Court.
To reiterate, the use of physical force to effectuate a theft or to escape, is robbery. Robbery is a second degree offense under these circumstances and is punishable by up to 10 years in jail. A parole ineligibility requirement also applies wherein an individual must serve 85% of any sentence before they are eligible for parole. While a robbery is a very serious offense, our NJ Shoplifting Defense Attorneys are often successful in mitigating the jail exposure in cases such as these.
