Facing Shoplifting Charges from CVS In Miami, Florida
Being accused of shoplifting or retail theft at any store can be an extremely stressful and unsettling experience. Having to deal with CVS shoplifting charges in Miami, Florida, invokes additional challenges as the pharmacy chain giant takes aggressive action against those believed to have stolen merchandise from their stores to set an example and limit revenue losses from theft crimes. However, with knowledgeable and experienced legal representation, many of those facing criminal allegations from CVS may be able to obtain charge dismissals or drastically reduced penalties.
CVS Shoplifting and Theft Policies in Miami, FL
CVS has very strict policies about investigating, detaining, and pressing charges against suspected shoplifters in their Miami pharmacy locations:
- CVS loss prevention officers can confront, detain, and question people suspected of stealing store merchandise.
- Local police will typically be called to make an arrest or issue a notice to appear citation.
- CVS pushes for criminal prosecution on shoplifting allegation cases rather than handling matters civilly.
- CVS also pursues civil restitution and fees in addition to criminal penalties.
- Shoplifters face bans from entering CVS locations for certain time periods in Florida.
Potential Penalties for Facing a CVS Shoplifting Case
The potential consequences faced by someone accused specifically of shoplifting from CVS depend largely on the alleged value of the goods they purportedly stole. Common categories under Florida state statutes include:
Petit Theft – involves stolen property under $750 in total value. A second-degree petit theft (under $100 value alleged) carries lighter penalties, while a first-degree petit theft (over $100 in value) has harsher potential sentences.
Third-Degree Grand Theft – applies if over $750 worth of merchandise was allegedly stolen. Being convicted means facing severe penalties of up to five years imprisonment. Because CVS sells high-value goods like electronics and designer beauty products that can quickly exceed the $750 threshold, facing grand theft is a real possibility.
A shoplifting conviction also generally remains permanently on a criminal record and has other personal, professional, and social consequences. CVS will likely try to recover civil penalty damages as well.
Potential Defenses Against CVS Shoplifting Charges
Skilled criminal defense lawyers know pursuing charge dismissals or acquittals requires closely examining the available evidence and police procedures for gaps. Several defenses Miami attorneys employ against CVS theft accusations include:
- Mistaken identity – Defendants may argue CVS staff or police misidentified them.
- No proof of intent – The prosecution must establish intent to steal on the defendant’s part.
- Insufficient evidence – If available evidence like surveillance footage fails to prove guilt, charges could be dismissed.
Finding the Right Shoplifting Defense Attorney for Your CVS Case
Our firm’s skilled shoplifting defense lawyers have extensive experience defending clients accused of stealing from CVS locations across Miami-Dade County. In the face of allegations from large retailers like CVS, we aggressively protect our clients’ rights. Contact us immediately if you or a loved one faces shoplifting or theft charges from CVS so we can start building your defense today.
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