The Hermès Birkin bag isn’t just a purse—it’s a cultural icon. Named after actress Jane Birkin and introduced in the 1980s, the Birkin has become one of the most exclusive and coveted fashion items in the world. Each bag is handcrafted in France, often using exotic materials like crocodile, ostrich, or alligator leather. The price? Anywhere from $10,000 to well over $100,000, depending on the size, material, and rarity.
But unlike most handbags, Birkins aren’t available on store shelves. You can’t walk into an Hermès boutique and buy one. Instead, you must build a relationship with the store—often spending thousands on other Hermès merchandise like scarves, belts, and shoes—just to be considered for a Birkin. This strategy, commonly referred to as playing the "Hermès Game," is what makes these bags even more elusive. Allocation is everything, and many would-be buyers are turned away even after years of loyalty.
Because of their high price tag and exclusivity, Birkins are frequently resold by luxury boutiques and online platforms—often at a markup. Their value and status have also made them a target for theft.
So what happens if someone steals a Birkin bag in South Carolina? The answer is simple: no matter how it’s done, it’s going to be a felony.
Grand Larceny in South Carolina – S.C. Code § 16-13-30
Theft charges in South Carolina are categorized by the value of the property stolen. When the value of the stolen item exceeds $2,000, the charge elevates from a misdemeanor (petit larceny) to grand larceny. And when the stolen property is worth $10,000 or more, it falls into the highest tier of grand larceny, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
That’s where the Birkin comes in. Because even the lowest-end Birkin is valued well over $10,000, anyone who steals one—regardless of whether it was snatched off someone’s shoulder or lifted from a closet—is looking at a felony grand larceny charge in General Sessions Court.
There are additional charges that may apply depending on how the theft occurs:
If someone physically grabs a Birkin from another person, they could also be charged with purse snatching (S.C. Code § 16-13-150), a felony that carries up to 15 years in prison.
If a Birkin is taken from a store (which would likely be a reseller, since there are no Hermès boutiques in South Carolina), the charge could include shoplifting (S.C. Code § 16-13-110), which at values over $10,000 also carries up to 10 years.
And if someone breaks into a home or business to steal a Birkin, they could be charged with burglary, which ranges in severity depending on the circumstances—from 3rd degree (up to 15 years) to 1st degree (up to life in prison).
Bottom Line
No matter how it’s done, stealing a Birkin is grand larceny, and it’s serious. It automatically qualifies as a felony in South Carolina and could be prosecuted alongside other charges depending on the situation. What may seem like a glamorous or opportunistic crime in the moment could result in years behind bars.
If you or someone you care about has been charged with larceny, shoplifting, burglary, or any theft-related offense, it’s essential to speak with an experienced defense attorney immediately. We have extensive experience defending against both misdemeanor and felony theft charges, and believe it or not, have represented a client charged with stealing a Birkin. But even if your case involves a Dior, Louis Vuitton, or even a Goyard, we can help (we also help with more mundane theft cases such as from Lexington and Columbia area retailers, construction site thefts, or employment related thefts).
Call the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC at (803) 359-3301 to schedule your free, confidential consultation. We represent clients across South Carolina and are committed to protecting your rights and your future. (Obviously, the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, is not affiliated with any luxury French leather brands).
Visit us online at www.snelllaw.com to learn more.