Self-checkout systems have become a staple of the modern retail shopping experience, offering customers convenience and shorter lines. Retailers like Walmart, Target, and grocery stores across Lexington, Columbia, and South Carolina have widely adopted these systems to reduce costs and streamline operations. While self-checkout lanes can save time, they also come with an increased risk of being accused of shoplifting, often due to simple mistakes.
At The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we represent clients charged with shoplifting from Walmart, Target, grocery stores, and other retailers that use self-checkout technology. If you’ve been accused of theft in Lexington, Red Bank, West Columbia, Batesburg, Harbison, or elsewhere in South Carolina, our experienced attorneys are here to protect your rights and explore options for resolving your case favorably.
How Self-Checkout Leads to Shoplifting Charges
Self-checkout systems rely on customers to handle the scanning, bagging, and payment process independently, often without assistance from store employees. While these systems offer convenience, they can also lead to mistakes, such as failing to scan an item or a scanner malfunction. Unfortunately, these errors can result in accusations of shoplifting, even if the shopper had no intention of stealing.
Common scenarios include a shopper placing a small item, like a greeting card or pack of batteries, under a bag, purse, or child’s car seat in the cart and unintentionally leaving without paying for it. Scanner errors are also frequent, such as when a customer uses the hand scanner but doesn’t realize the item didn’t register due to a technical issue or user error. Distractions, such as juggling groceries, children, or other responsibilities, can also lead to skipping an item unintentionally.
These scenarios frequently happen at Walmart but are also common at Target, Publix, Kroger, and other grocery chains in the Midlands. The growing reliance on self-checkout technology in these stores increases the chances of honest mistakes leading to criminal charges.
Shoplifting Under South Carolina Law
In South Carolina, shoplifting is a criminal offense with serious consequences. Even if the value of the item is small, the penalties can include up to 30 days in jail, fines and court costs, and a permanent criminal record that can impact employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove that you acted with the intent to steal. This intent requirement is critical because it allows for a defense in cases where the failure to pay was accidental.
How We Can Help You Fight a Shoplifting Charge
If you’ve been charged with shoplifting, whether from Walmart, Target, or a grocery store, it’s essential to understand that you have options. At The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we have extensive experience helping clients resolve these cases without a criminal conviction.
We can seek a dismissal of charges by reviewing the evidence, including security footage, to identify errors or inconsistencies. If the evidence shows the incident was a mistake, we may be able to persuade prosecutors to dismiss the charges entirely. Referral into pre-trial diversion programs such as pre-trial intervention (PTI) or deferred prosecution agreements offers alternatives to conviction. These programs often involve completing community service, paying restitution, or attending a class, allowing you to avoid a criminal record. For clients who are not eligible for diversion programs, we can work to reduce the charges or penalties, helping you avoid jail time or minimize long-term consequences. If your case goes to court, we will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and argue that you lacked the intent to steal. Security footage, receipts, and witness testimony are often critical to building a successful defense.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The earlier we are involved in your case, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. By contacting us immediately after being accused or charged, we can prevent you from making statements to store security or law enforcement that could harm your defense. We can gather critical evidence, such as security footage or transaction records, before it is lost or overwritten, and advocate on your behalf with prosecutors to explore alternatives to prosecution, such as dismissal or diversion.
Even if you believe the evidence against you is strong, there are options to help you avoid a conviction or jail sentence. We work to tailor our approach to your unique situation, always striving for the best possible resolution.
We Represent Clients Across South Carolina
Our firm regularly represents clients charged with shoplifting from Walmart, Target, and grocery stores throughout Lexington, Red Bank, West Columbia, Batesburg, Harbison, and the Columbia area. Whether your case involves a small grocery item or high-value merchandise, we have the experience and knowledge to help.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Being accused of shoplifting is stressful and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we understand the challenges you’re facing and are here to help. Whether you’ve been charged after using a self-checkout lane at Walmart, Target, or a grocery store, we can help protect your rights and explore all options for resolving your case favorably.
Call us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the first steps toward resolving the charges. Let us work to protect your future and help you move forward with confidence.
Legal Disclaimer: Any result the law firm may achieve on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients