Shoplifting penalties in Rhode Island scale by merchandise value. Civil shoplifting violations (typically under $100 at retailer discretion) carry fines without jail or criminal record. Misdemeanor shoplifting ($100 to $1,500) carries up to 1 year jail and fines up to $500. Felony shoplifting (over $1,500) carries up to 10 years prison and fines up to $5,000. Mandatory restitution to the store applies in every case. Most stores also pursue civil recovery demands separately from the criminal case, sending letters demanding payment of several hundred dollars beyond the merchandise value. Both criminal and civil tracks need to be addressed by experienced counsel.
