Retail Fraud in Canton Michigan: Skip-Scanning Charges Explained
Retail Fraud in Canton, Michigan – What You Need to Know if You’re Charged at Walmart or Meijer
Retail fraud—often called “shoplifting”—is one of the most common criminal charges in Canton, Michigan. Every year, police and loss-prevention officers investigate hundreds of cases at major retailers, especially the Canton Walmart and Canton Meijer, two of the busiest stores in the area.
As a criminal defense lawyer who regularly handles cases in the 35th District Court, I have seen firsthand how a simple mistake at a self-checkout lane can lead to serious criminal consequences. One of the most common situations I defend is skip-scanning.
Charged with retail fraud and want the best defense possible? You better call Boria at Boria Law – Criminal Defense Attorney (734) 453-7806.
What Is Skip-Scanning?
Skip-scanning is a form of retail fraud that typically occurs at the self-checkout. It happens when items are:
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Not scanned at all
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Partially scanned
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Scanned as a cheaper item
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Placed in the bagging area without being rung up
Many people accused of skip-scanning had no intent to steal—self-checkout machines misread barcodes, items stick together, or a shopper becomes distracted. Unfortunately, big-box stores aggressively pursue criminal charges regardless of whether the act was accidental.
On the other hand, there are a lot of people who simply mad a bad decision to try to steal and item in order to save money. Let’s face it, times are tough, and it can be tempting not to pay these inflated prices.
Retail Fraud Charges in Canton, Michigan
Retail Fraud Second Degree (MCL 750.356d)
Second-degree retail fraud applies when the value of the merchandise is between $200 and $1,000, or when the value is under $200 but the person has a prior theft conviction.
Penalties include:
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Up to 1 year in jail
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Up to $2,000 in fines, or three times the value of the stolen property
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Probation
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Restitution
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A permanent criminal record affecting employment, licensing, and immigration status
Retail Fraud Third Degree
Third-degree retail fraud applies when the value of the merchandise is under $200.
Penalties include:
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Up to 93 days in jail
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Fines and restitution
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Probation
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A criminal conviction that can follow you for life
Even though third-degree retail fraud is a misdemeanor, the long-term consequences can be devastating. Employers, especially in retail, finance, and public service, often treat theft crimes as harshly as violent offenses.
Why You Should Contact Aaron J. Boria if You’re Charged with Retail Fraud in Canton
If you’ve been arrested or cited for retail fraud at the Canton Walmart, Meijer, or any other retailer, choosing the right lawyer makes all the difference. Here’s why people across Michigan turn to Attorney Aaron J. Boria to defend them.
Unmatched Experience with the 35th District Court
Canton, Plymouth, and Northville cases are heard at the 35th District Court, a court where I have handled countless criminal matters over the years. I know:
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The judges
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The prosecutors
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The local procedures
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What arguments work—and what doesn’t
This local familiarity gives my clients a strategic advantage that out-of-town attorneys simply cannot offer.
Proven Track Record of Keeping Clients Out of Jail
Most of my clients charged with retail fraud never see a day in jail. My approach focuses on mitigation, early negotiation, and demonstrating why my client deserves leniency.
Options for Sealing, Dismissing, or Avoiding a Conviction
Depending on your record and the facts of your case, you may qualify for:
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Delays of sentence (which can lead to dismissal)
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Record sealing/expungement options
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Negotiated reductions to non-theft offenses
In many cases, my clients walk away with no criminal conviction or are put in a position to earn a dismissal, and their records remain clean for employers, schools, and the general public.
Personalized Defense Focused on Your Future
I treat every case as if the outcome will define your life—because for many people, it does. I will:
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Analyze store video
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Challenge loss-prevention procedures when appropriate
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Investigate whether the alleged “skip-scan” was accidental
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Negotiate aggressively
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Fight the charge in court when necessary
You are not just another case file. You deserve a defense tailored to your life, your career, and your reputation.
Charged with Retail Fraud in Canton? Call Attorney Aaron J. Boria Today
A retail fraud charge is not something to take lightly. Before you speak to the police, loss-prevention, or the prosecutor, speak to a lawyer who knows how to protect you.
Call (734) 453-7806 for a consultation.
You deserve a defense that fights for your freedom, your future, and your record.
