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Arkansas theft and shoplifting charges

Being charged with shoplifting or petty theft may seem rather inconsequential when it happens, however, if you are convicted of either of these Arkansas theft charges, the long-term ramifications may be more significant than you think. An Arkansas theft conviction can follow you for the rest of your life and result in lost job opportunities as well as difficulties finding a home.

Understanding Arkansas theft charges


Like most states, Arkansas has "degrees" of theft. The charges vary based on the value of the property and/or the methods used to obtain that property. The most common theft charges fall into these categories:
  • Class A Misdemeanor - the theft of property where the value is less than $1,000
  • Class D Felony - stolen property is valued at under $500 but the theft(s) occurred as a series; e.g. three or more occasions over three days
  • Class D Felony - theft of property valued at more than $1,000 but less than $5,000 or stealing a firearm valued at less than $2,500
  • Class C Felony - property valued between $5,000 and $25,000 was stolen or a firearm was stolen valued at more than $5,000
  • Class B Felony - any theft that involves property valued at more than $25,000

The penalties for Arkansas theft convictions

When a someone is convicted of theft in Arkansas, the penalties vary based on the class of theft as well as whether or not shoplifting was involved. In the case of shoplifting, the person convicted may
face civil charges as well as criminal charges. In the case of shoplifting, the conviction could carry the following civil penalties:
  • Remuneration based on the retail value of the merchandise assuming it is not recovered and able to be sold or the dollar difference between the "as is" value and the full retail value
  • Fines of up to $1,000
  • Court cost and reasonable attorney fees paid to the store owner to bring action against a shoplifter
Keep in mind, these are civil penalties and are in addition to the criminal penalties that one may have to face if they are convicted. While prior "bad acts" are not always considered based on Arkansas criminal law, the penalties are still significant and include:
  • Class A misdemeanor - convictions can result in jail time for up to one year as well as fines of up to $2,500
  • Class D felony - convictions could result in fines of up to $10,000 and up to six years in jail
  • Class C felony - those convicted could face between three and ten years of jail time and fines of up to $10,000
  • Class B felony - when convicted, jail time is typically between five and twenty years and a fine of upwards of $15,000

Keep in mind that enhanced charges may be added if the theft was carried out using a firearm or if someone was injured or died as a result of the theft.

The longer-term ramifications of an Arkansas theft conviction

It is important to understand that once you "do your time" in Arkansas, the ramifications of a theft conviction do not cease. While you may have served your time, unless you are able to have your record expunged, your criminal conviction may impact your ability to land a job and find suitable housing. In addition, without applying for the right to vote again, you may not be able to vote in any upcoming local, state or federal elections.

For those facing Arkansas theft and shoplifting charges should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately for assistance. An attorney who understands the Arkansas criminal code may be able to assist you in reducing the charges against you or helping you avoid serving jail time by seeking out potential alternatives to jail time and a criminal conviction that could haunt you for many years after a theft crime.


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