At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we defend individuals facing these serious charges. We offer free consultations at (803) 359‑3301.
Why Lawmakers & Retailers Backed the Bill
South Carolina’s Attorney General Alan Wilson noted that organized retail crime fuels more violent offenses—including human trafficking and gang activity. A 2024 National Retail Federation survey found more than 75% of retailers identified organized theft as a growing threat—and violence has increased post‑COVID. Representatives from major retailers (including Walmart, Walgreens, and Publix) and local solicitors spoke in support during the bill’s passage.
What Counts as “Organized Retail Crime”?
Two or more individuals conspiring to steal over $2,000 worth of retail property during a 90‑day period, intending to resell or fence the goods, can now be charged with organized retail crime. “Retail property” includes merchandise, gift cards, cash, or negotiable documents. Prosecutors may aggregate multiple acts across counties into a single case, prosecuted wherever any part of the theft occurred.
Penalties: From Misdemeanor to Heavy Felonies
Penalties under the new law scale with the value of the stolen goods:
$2,000–$10,000: Misdemeanor (up to 3 years in prison or a $5,000 fine)
$10,000–$20,000: Felony (up to 5 years or $10,000)
$20,000–$50,000: Felony (up to 10 years or $20,000)
Above $50,000: Felony (up to 20 years or $50,000)
Second or subsequent offenses: Felony (up to 20 years, regardless of value)
A more serious version—Organized Retail Crime of an Aggravated Nature—applies if the offense involves property damage over $2,000 or bodily harm. That charge carries up to 15 years in prison.
Out-of-State Defendants: A Special Concern
The law is clearly aimed at interstate theft rings, reacting to trends of “smash‑and‑grab” and cross‑border operations.
For out-of-state defendants, the consequences can be particularly severe:
Bond conditions typically prohibit leaving South Carolina without court permission
Multiple court appearances may be required across various counties
Felony-level charges bring life-altering consequences, including potential prison time and arrest warrants for failure to appear
If you’re charged and reside outside of South Carolina, securing a local defense attorney immediately is essential to protect your rights and manage bond limitations.
Why Local Legal Representation Matters
With the broad scope of this law—aggregation, jurisdiction across counties, and harsh sentencing—what looks like a minor shoplifting case can quickly become a serious legal threat. Prosecutors are actively investigating these cases, and retail associations are closely monitoring outcomes.
At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we understand the legal and procedural challenges that come with General Sessions felony charges. We have experience defending retail crime cases in Lexington, Columbia, and beyond.
Call Now for Your Free Consultation
If you've been charged with organized retail theft, or think you may be under investigation, don’t wait to get help. We provide experienced criminal defense representation to both South Carolina residents and out-of-state defendants.
Call (803) 359‑3301 today for a free, confidential case review with a South Carolina Criminal Defense Attorney