We typically don’t report a lot of shoplifting stories unless they are fairly sizeable. But, we thought we would report on this one, just to make you aware of the problem of theft in our community and the potential consequences despite the value of the theft.

On Tuesday a man walked into Walmart on Old Fort Parkway and allegedly stole fishing weights. Because of the minor theft incident, the suspect was told he could never visit Walmart again and was officially “Trespassed” from the property. The man was also issued a citation for theft under $500.

This story may sound quite insignificant, but the consequence can be quite harsh for the action of stealing something that cost as little as one dollar and fifty three cents ($1.53). If the suspect retains an attorney, it will cost him between $300 and $500. In addition to the lawyer fee, the man will also face the original class A misdemeanor charge for the alleged theft. If found guilty, the crime that involved a stolen fishing weight valued at under two dollars, could land him in jail for 11-months and 29-days. It could also include a fine of up to $2,500.

So far, this case has not been to court.

Source:

MPD Incident Report #13-18132

University of Tennessee, “An Overview of Criminal Offenses under Tennessee Law.”