<h1></h1>Police in Colorado jurisdictions including Denver, Broomfield, and Adams County are investigating what they claim is a rash of crimes involving the Theft (C.R.S. 18-4-401) of laundry detergent. Apparently, detergent is a hot item on the black market and shoplifters can sell it to Laundromats for a significant profit.
Because supermarkets across the state are claiming they are losing millions of dollars from these thefts, many are installing more surveillance cameras and hiring more staff to be observe customers while undercover. One such surveillance video shows a Ft. Lupton man stealing $8100 worth of Tide from six different stores. While it may not seem like a very serious crime to shoplift laundry detergent, this man could be facing significant prison time because stealing anything of with a value of over $1000 is a felony Theft charge in Colorado.
In our experience as criminal defense attorneys, it seems like people are surprised that they can be accused of Theft even if they never leave the store in which they are shopping. For example, if you are shopping and put something in your purse with every intention to pay for it, the Aurora, Thornton, and Westminster police can charge you with a completed crime of Theft because in concealing the item, you showed the intent to steal it. You don’t need to have left the store.
If you have been charged with Theft or Shoplifting in Arapahoe, Douglas, or Jefferson County, the attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office can help minimize possible jail time and fines you are facing. Don’t let prosecutors make you feel like taking a $20 bottle of detergent is the crime of the century. Perhaps you forgot you had it in your cart, or maybe you just made a mistake. We can help the district attorneys see the big picture and make them treat you like an individual. So, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call us today at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.