Shoplifting is on the rise in BC.
According to the Retail Council of Canada, Canadian businesses lost $9.2 billion in 2025. Some explanations point to the increased cost of living, while others point to the growth of organized retail crime and resale networks. Regardless, the legal consequences for shoplifting can be very serious.
The Legal Reality of Shoplifting
Shoplifting refers to theft from a retail business. Some examples of businesses affected by shoplifting include:
- Aritzia
- Best Buy
- Canadian Tire
- Lululemon
- Real Canadian Superstore
- Sephora
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Sport Chek
- Walmart
- Winners
Shoplifting is prosecuted in criminal court as “Theft Under $5000,” which is an offence contrary to section 334 of the Criminal Code. Simply put, theft is defined as the taking of another’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property.
Shoplifting Carries Serious Penalties
Anyone who commits theft, where the value of the items stolen is under $5,000, may be imprisoned for up to two years. If the value of the items stolen is over $5,000, the maximum penalty is ten years’ imprisonment.
A criminal record for theft may also lead to immigration consequences, including the removal from Canada or the denial of entry to the United States. A skilled theft and property offences lawyer is essential to ensure your case is handled carefully to protect your immigration status.
Two Big Mistakes to Avoid in Shoplifting Cases
- Speaking to the LPO or the Police – You have the Right to Silence and the right to speak to a lawyer upon arrest or detention. Anything you say to the police or the Loss Prevention Officer (LPO) can be used as evidence against you in court. Speak to a lawyer. Do not speak to the police or the LPO.
- Pleading Guilty Without Consulting a Lawyer – Pleading guilty can have severe legal consequences, including a permanent criminal record and removal from Canada. It is important to consult with legal counsel before deciding to plead guilty.
If you or someone you know has been accused of shoplifting, Filkow Law has a team of criminal defence lawyers in Vancouver ready to help with decades of experience in handling shoplifting and all manner of theft cases.
Call Filkow Law today for a confidential consultation!