The simple answer is: ALWAYS.
No matter how small the item, taking something that is not yours is a crime, plain and simple. There have been literally hundreds of thousands of theft charges written by prosecutors for thefts in which the defendant is accused of stealing less than five dollars worth of merchandise from a store. If you have kids and teenagers around you, it is very important to let them know that – yes, shoplifting even a candy bar worth less than one dollar can result in criminal charges.
Often these small scale crimes are charged as petty misdemeanors and dealt with through a “diversion” program. But if those offers are ignored your teenager will end up with a court hearing before a district court judge.
Teenagers often find themselves on the wrong end of many charges that used to be treated more lightly.
- Streaking across the athletic field during a game is Disorderly Conduct.
- Taking a car for a joy ride is really Motor Vehicle Theft.
- Stealing a neighbors lawn ornaments is Theft
- Egging someone’s house is Criminal Damage to Property.
- Breaking into a schoolmate’s house is Burglary.
The moral of the story, as David Crosby once sang: teach your children well. And keep them out of the juvenile court system! If your child or teenager winds up in juvenile court it’s very important to deal with it swiftly. Take advantage of any diversionary programs offered, and make sure all court orders are followed so the situation doesn’t escalate with further bad behavior resulting in probation violations or new charges.