Shoplifting Charges and Immigration Status in Connecticut

For non-citizens living in Connecticut — whether you’re here on a student visa, a work visa, or as a permanent resident — a shoplifting arrest is more than just a brush with the law. It can jeopardize your ability to stay in the U.S., renew your visa, or apply for citizenship down the road. I meet many clients who never thought a quick mistake at the mall, Target, or grocery store could spiral into such serious consequences.

Here’s the truth: shoplifting cases are common. They’re often one-time mistakes, fueled by stress, peer pressure, or a misunderstanding. But when immigration status is in play, the stakes are much higher. The good news is that there are defenses, diversionary programs, and strategies to protect both your criminal record and your immigration future.

Connecticut does not have a separate “shoplifting” statute. Instead, shoplifting falls under the general larceny laws (C.G.S. § 53a-119 and related statutes). The key element is intent: did you take merchandise with the intent to permanently deprive the store of it?

• Larceny 6th degree (under $250) — Class C misdemeanor, up to 3 months in jail, $500 fine.
• Larceny 5th degree ($250–$500) — Class B misdemeanor, up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 fine.
• Larceny 4th degree ($500–$1,000) — Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail, $2,000 fine.
• Larceny 3rd degree and above — Felonies for higher amounts.

Even the lowest misdemeanor can trigger immigration consequences.

For immigration law purposes, shoplifting is often considered a crime involving moral turpitude (CIMT) because it involves dishonesty. A single CIMT conviction can cause big problems:

• Deportability: Certain CIMT convictions may make a person removable from the U.S.
• Visa holders (F-1, H-1B, J-1, etc.): A conviction could affect renewals, change-of-status applications, or future approvals.
• Green card applicants: USCIS officers review criminal records closely. A shoplifting conviction may block naturalization or adjustment of status.
• Travel problems: Customs and Border Protection may refuse re-entry if they see a conviction on your record.
• Pending applications: Even if your case isn’t resolved yet, having an open criminal case can cause a visa renewal or USCIS application to be denied or delayed. This is why moving the case quickly is essential when immigration deadlines are looming.

(Details changed for confidentiality)

• International Student: A 19-year-old on an F-1 visa is caught taking $80 worth of clothing. Even though the charge is “only” a misdemeanor, a guilty plea could jeopardize her student status. With AR, we secured a dismissal and protected her immigration future.
• Green Card Holder: A 45-year-old permanent resident is arrested for shoplifting $300 in merchandise. A conviction could trigger immigration review. We negotiated AR, and his record was cleared after completion.
• Work Visa Professional: A 32-year-old H-1B worker at a tech company faces shoplifting charges for accidentally leaving unpaid items in a cart. We built a defense around lack of intent and got the case nolled before trial.
• Not a Charge: A distracted parent forgets to scan a case of water at self-checkout. Store security detains them, but after review, the police decline to press charges because there was no intent to steal.

• Accelerated Rehabilitation (AR) Program: A first-time offender program that results in dismissal and erasure of the case if successfully completed. This is often the best option for non-citizens.
• Move Fast if You Have Immigration Deadlines: If your visa renewal or application is coming up, we prioritize resolving the case quickly — often filing for AR immediately or negotiating a fast dismissal so that no open case appears on your record during your next immigration filing. Timing can be just as critical as the outcome.
• Challenge Intent: Prosecutors must prove you intended to steal. Mistakes, distractions, or poor self-checkout technology often create reasonable doubt.
• Negotiate Lesser Charges: Sometimes we can work out a plea to a non‑CIMT charge, reducing immigration consequences.
• Fight the Case: If the facts support you, we can take the case to trial.

Not automatically. But a conviction can put you at risk. Dismissals or AR usually avoid immigration consequences.

Traveling is risky — customs officers may question you about the pending case. Always check with your lawyer first.

A conviction can affect your SEVIS status and ability to renew your visa. Many colleges also impose their own discipline.

A conviction for a CIMT may delay or block naturalization and could create deportability issues if combined with other charges.

Yes. Since AR leads to dismissal and erasure, it’s usually the safest route for non-citizens.

Generally yes — because it involves theft and dishonesty. That’s why avoiding conviction is critical.

No. Once AR is completed and the record erased, employers and most background checks won’t see it.

Not if you’re not a U.S. citizen. The risks are too high. Immigration and criminal defense must work together.

There may still be post‑conviction relief options, but the sooner you act, the better.

A conviction can. But if dismissed, your record is erased, and legally you can answer “no” when asked if you’ve ever been arrested.

A shoplifting arrest is stressful for anyone, but for non-citizens in Connecticut, the fear of immigration consequences makes it feel overwhelming. The reality is that many shoplifting cases can be resolved without a permanent record — and without jeopardizing your future in this country.

If you’re facing visa deadlines, the timing of your case is just as important as the outcome. Leaving a shoplifting case open while applying for a new visa or green card can cause serious immigration problems. Acting quickly with an experienced lawyer can make the difference between a smooth application and a denial.

Don’t take chances with your freedom, your visa, or your green card. I’ve helped countless clients in your shoes protect both their records and their immigration status. Call me at (203) 357-5555 or visit my Contact Page to get immediate help.