Charged with Shoplifting at Sephora Woodbury Lakes? Here’s What You Need to Know

Being charged with shoplifting from a store like Sephora at Woodbury Lakes in St. Paul can be scary, difficult, overwhelming. Whether it was a misunderstanding, a moment of poor judgment, or a wrongful accusation, or simply a really bad decision, the consequences are serious. At Jack Rice Defense, we understand the stress these charges can bring—and we know how to fight them.

📞 If you’ve been charged, call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 today for a free, confidential consultation.

Shoplifting in Minnesota: A Serious Criminal Offense

Shoplifting, also referred to as retail theft, is prosecuted under Minnesota Statute § 609.52. Even minor thefts from retail stores like Sephora can lead to lasting consequences. This is not just a ticket or a slap on the wrist—it's a criminal charge that can impact your employment, housing, and future.

“The problem with shoplifting charges is that they’re all about honesty and integrity—which are central to what employers are looking for.”
— Jack Rice

What Exactly Counts as Shoplifting?

You don’t have to walk out of a store with unpaid items to be charged with theft. Shoplifting can include a range of actions, including:

• Hiding or concealing merchandise in a bag, pocket, or stroller

• Changing or switching price tags

• Returning stolen items for a refund or credit

• Tampering with packaging to pay less or avoid detection

Each of these actions is treated as intentional theft, regardless of the item’s value.

Legal Penalties for Shoplifting in Minnesota

The severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen merchandise and whether you have prior offenses:

• Misdemeanor Theft (under $500):
  Up to 90 days in jail and/or $1,000 in fines

• Gross Misdemeanor Theft ($500 to $1,000):
  Up to 1 year in jail and/or $3,000 in fines

• Felony Theft (over $1,000 or repeat offenses):
  Up to 5 years in prison and/or $10,000 in fines

These charges may also stay on your criminal record, potentially impacting background checks, job prospects, licensing, and more.

Possible Legal Defenses for Shoplifting

Just because you’ve been accused doesn’t mean you’re guilty. There are a number of legal defenses that may apply to your case, including:

• Lack of Intent: You accidentally left the store without realizing you hadn’t paid.

• Mistaken Identity: Retail surveillance systems aren’t perfect. You may have been misidentified.

• Duress: You were pressured or coerced into taking the item.

Our team will investigate the facts and build a defense strategy tailored to your case.

Why Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney Matters

“Shoplifting charges may seem simple. They aren’t—and having an experienced defense attorney by your side to make sure it’s handled correctly may be the best investment you will ever make.”
— Jack Rice

At Jack Rice Defense, we bring decades of experience and a relentless approach to protecting your rights. When you work with us, we will:

• Examine the evidence and security footage

• Challenge any illegal search or seizure

• Question the credibility of witness or loss prevention reports

• Work to get your charges reduced—or dismissed

Accused of Shoplifting at Sephora Woodbury Lakes? Don’t Wait.

If you’re facing shoplifting charges in Woodbury, St. Paul, or the Twin Cities metro, your best next step is to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. The earlier we’re involved, the more we can do to protect your future.

📞 Call Jack Rice Defense today at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 for a free and confidential consultation.