A Shoplifting arrest in Larimer County can be stressful, embarrassing, and confusing. Many people charged with Shoplifting have never been in trouble before, yet suddenly find themselves facing criminal charges, possible jail time, and a permanent record that can affect their future.
If you’ve been accused of Shoplifting in Fort Collins, Loveland, Estes Park, Wellington, Berthoud, or anywhere in Larimer County, it’s important to remember that you have rights and that a mistake or misunderstanding does not have to define your life.
At O’Malley Law Office, we defend clients throughout Larimer County who are accused of theft, shoplifting, and other property crimes. Our goal is to protect your record, minimize the impact on your future, and help you move forward.
What Is Shoplifting Under Colorado Law? A Fort Collins Theft Attorney Explains
In Colorado, Shoplifting is prosecuted under the state’s general Theft statute, C.R.S. § 18-4-401. Theft occurs when someone knowingly takes the property of another without authorization and intends to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Shoplifting (sometimes called retail theft) can include:
- Taking merchandise from a store without paying
- Concealing items in clothing, bags, or strollers
- Switching price tags or packaging
- Returning items that weren’t purchased for a refund or store credit
Even minor shoplifting incidents, such as a small item from a local store in Old Town Fort Collins or Centerra in Loveland, can lead to criminal charges if prosecutors believe there was intent to steal.
Where Are Shoplifting Cases Heard in Larimer County?
Shoplifting cases are typically filed in the Larimer County Court or Larimer County District Court depending on the severity of the charge.
Arrests and investigations are often handled by:
- Fort Collins Police Services
- Loveland Police Department
- Estes Park Police Department
- Larimer County Sheriff’s Office
Understanding which agency and court are involved is important, as each has its own local procedures and prosecutors.
Penalties for Shoplifting and Theft in Colorado
Colorado bases theft penalties on the value of the property allegedly taken:
|
Value of Stolen Property |
Offense Level |
Possible Penalties |
| Less than $300 | Petty Offense | Up to 10 days in jail and/or $300 fine |
| $300 – $1,000 | Class 2 Misdemeanor | Up to 120 days in jail and/or $750 fine |
| $1,000 – $2,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 364 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine |
| $2,000 – $5,000 | Class 6 Felony | 12–18 months in prison and/or up to $100,000 fine |
| $5,000 – $20,000 | Class 5 Felony | 1–3 years in prison and/or up to $100,000 fine |
| $20,000 – $100,000 | Class 4 Felony | 2–6 years in prison and/or up to $500,000 fine |
| $100,000 – $1,000,000 | Class 3 Felony | 4–12 years in prison and/or up to $750,000 fine |
| $1,000,000 or more | Class 2 Felony | 8–24 years in prison and/or up to $1,000,000 fine |
Even a petty theft conviction from a Fort Collins or Loveland court can appear on your permanent record and make it harder to find a job, rent an apartment, or pass a background check.
How a Larimer County Theft Defense Lawyer Can Help
Shoplifting cases are often more complex than they appear. Surveillance video, witness testimony, and store security procedures all play a role and mistakes by law enforcement or loss prevention personnel can make a big difference in your case.
As a Larimer County criminal defense attorney, O’Malley Law Office provides skilled representation in:
- Larimer County Court and District Court (Loveland and Fort Collins)
- Cases from Fort Collins Police Services, Loveland PD, and Larimer County Sheriff’s Office
- Theft charges arising from major retailers, grocery stores, or local shops across Northern Colorado
We know the local judges, prosecutors, and probation programs and we work to resolve your case with minimal long-term impact, whether through dismissal, reduction, or alternative sentencing options.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Shoplifting Theft, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Craig Adderley