Organized Retail Crime Defense Attorney – South Carolina

If you or a loved one has been arrested for organized retail crime in South Carolina, you're facing a serious felony charge that can carry up to 20 years in prison. These cases are being prosecuted aggressively in General Sessions Court, often across multiple counties. You need experienced legal representation immediately.

At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we are now accepting cases under South Carolina’s new organized retail crime law. We offer free consultations — contact us today.

What Is Organized Retail Crime?

In 2024, South Carolina passed a law that dramatically expanded how shoplifting offenses can be prosecuted. Under S.C. Code § 16‑13‑135, organized retail crime is defined as two or more people conspiring to steal retail goods valued at more than $2,000 over a 90-day period, with the intent to resell, trade, or otherwise benefit from those items.

Prosecutors can aggregate thefts across multiple counties and charge defendants based on the combined value. Cases may be prosecuted in any county where any part of the offense occurred.

Penalties for Organized Retail Crime

The penalties for this offense are based on the total value of stolen items:

• $2,000 to $10,000: Misdemeanor, up to 3 years in prison
• $10,000 to $20,000: Felony, up to 5 years
• $20,000 to $50,000: Felony, up to 10 years
• Over $50,000: Felony, up to 20 years
• Second offense (any value): Felony, up to 20 years

A more serious charge, Organized Retail Crime of an Aggravated Nature, can be filed if property damage exceeds $2,000 or someone is injured during the offense. This version carries up to 15 years in prison.

Out-of-State Defendants: What You Need to Know

Many people charged under this law are not from South Carolina. Law enforcement agencies are targeting groups traveling through the state, often arresting individuals while they are passing through or vacationing here.

If you are from out of state, a standard bond condition is that you cannot leave South Carolina without court permission. You may also be required to appear at multiple hearings in General Sessions Court.

We help out-of-state defendants request bond modifications, coordinate appearances, and aggressively defend against the charges.

Get Help Now — Speak With a Criminal Defense Attorney

Attorney James R. Snell, Jr. has over 20 years of experience defending clients facing serious charges in South Carolina’s state courts. We know the law, the local court systems in Lexington and Columbia, and how to challenge these accusations effectively.

If you’ve been charged or contacted by law enforcement, don’t wait. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in how your case is handled.

Contact us now for a free consultation, or use our secure contact form to get started.

Why Choose Us for Your Defense

• Free and confidential consultations
• Extensive experience in General Sessions Court
• Defense available statewide, including Lexington and Columbia
• Out-of-state representation and bond condition management