New Jersey statute indicates that intent is required to prove shoplifting, so arguing that you inadvertently walked out of the store with merchandise can be a defense.
It is not an especially strong defense, particularly if there are other facts that can be used to convince a jury that you did intend to shoplift merchandise.
If you have a past shoplifting conviction, current money problems, or similar life events that can be used against you, you can bet the prosecutor will come at you with them.
In cases where merchandise inadvertently walked out the door and the situation escalated to criminal charges, you need strong representation to calm the situation if possible, and fight back if it’s not.
Call attorney Matthew Reisig today at 732-625-9661 and talk to an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney for free.