Why Do People Shoplift? The Psychology, Stress, and Legal Consequences in Connecticut

In my over 30 years as a criminal defense lawyer in Connecticut, one thing has become clear: shoplifting is rarely about need. Most of the people I defend could have easily afforded the item they’re accused of stealing. What I see time and time again is that the act is tied to something deeper — emotional stress, depression, relationship issues, or the search for a quick escape from overwhelming problems.

I tell clients this all the time: shoplifting doesn’t define you. It’s often a symptom of stress, not a reflection of who you are. Courts and police may only see the criminal charge, but the story is more complex.

Many of my clients are going through tough times when the arrest happens. Divorce, financial strain, job loss, or mental health struggles all create a pressure cooker. The act of shoplifting, for some, becomes a misguided “outlet” — a quick rush that distracts from pain. It’s not about the object taken; it’s about breaking routine, doing something reckless, or simply feeling alive in a moment of darkness.

Depression often dulls a person’s sense of purpose. Anxiety can drive impulsive behavior. I’ve seen clients who describe the theft as almost surreal — as if they were on autopilot. Afterwards, they feel guilt and shame, which only deepens the cycle.

While less common, some people do suffer from clinical impulse-control disorders. Kleptomania — the repeated urge to steal items not needed for personal use or value — is a recognized condition. In these cases, the theft has nothing to do with financial need and everything to do with compulsion.

Alcohol or drugs lower inhibitions, and a quick stop at a store after a night out can spiral into an arrest. Teenagers and young adults may also be pulled into shoplifting by friends or peer influence, even when they would never have acted alone.

Under Connecticut law, shoplifting is prosecuted as Larceny in the Sixth Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-125b) when the value of the property or services taken is $500 or less. From a legal perspective, the motive doesn’t change the charge. Stealing a $75 shirt from the mall is technically treated the same whether you did it to impress friends or because you were overwhelmed by stress.

But this is where an experienced defense lawyer makes a difference. Prosecutors and judges don’t always look beneath the surface. If your attorney doesn’t tell your story, you risk being treated like a career thief instead of a first-time offender who made a mistake under pressure.

Even when the dollar amount is low, shoplifting has serious consequences:

• Arrest and court appearance – even a petty theft can land you in handcuffs.
• Permanent record – a conviction follows you unless later pardoned.
• Employment and immigration impact – larceny is a crime of dishonesty that employers, schools, and immigration authorities take very seriously.
• Fines and probation – penalties often include counseling or community service.

While the statute itself doesn’t consider motive, the defense strategy absolutely does. A lawyer can show the court:

• The theft was an isolated act during a stressful time.
• The client has no prior record and is otherwise law-abiding.
• The client has sought counseling/therapy or support since the arrest.
• Restitution was made quickly, and remorse is genuine.

Over decades of practice, I’ve seen how powerful it can be to present this fuller picture. It often convinces prosecutors and judges to recommend diversionary programs, offer leniency, or dismiss charges after conditions are met.

Over decades of practice, I’ve also seen that many situations can be resolved without leaving clients with a permanent record. Prosecutors and judges are far more receptive when the full context is explained and steps have been taken to address the root cause. A strong defense strategy often includes:

• Humanizing the case: Explain the stress, emotional struggles, or situational pressures that led to the arrest to show an isolated lapse, not a pattern.
• Therapist letters: A letter from a licensed counselor acknowledging treatment for underlying issues (stress, anxiety, depression) carries significant weight.
• Counseling and proactive steps: Therapy, support groups, or other steps toward self-improvement demonstrate change.
• Community service: Completing hours proactively signals accountability.
• Accelerated Rehabilitation (AR) Program: As a last resort, eligible defendants may apply for AR, which can result in dismissal after a probationary period. Because AR can only be used once every ten years, we avoid “burning” it on a minor incident when other solutions can achieve dismissal.

• Don’t panic. Many good people have been in this situation and moved forward with clean records.
• Don’t try to explain to store security or police. Anything you say can be used against you later.
• Call a lawyer immediately. Early intervention means better options and better outcomes.
• Get support. If stress, depression, or substance use played a role, seek counseling — it helps your case and your life.

No. Many clients could afford the items. Stress, depression, impulse, or peer pressure are often the real drivers.

Not as a legal excuse, but it’s powerful mitigation. Context can support leniency or diversion.

Connecticut offers diversionary programs that may lead to dismissal if you complete requirements like counseling or community service.

Yes. Larceny is a dishonesty offense and can harm employment opportunities—avoid a conviction if at all possible.

Yes. After three years for a misdemeanor and five years for a felony, you can apply for a full pardon—ideally, avoid a conviction first.

They can. Proper documentation changes how courts approach treatment and outcomes.

Often yes—juvenile matters emphasize rehabilitation over punishment.

No. Politely decline and wait for an attorney. Security interviews build the case against you.

Penalties scale with value. Under C.G.S. § 53a-125b, $500 or less is sixth-degree larceny (Class C misdemeanor). Higher values mean higher degrees and harsher penalties.

By protecting your rights, negotiating with prosecutors, and making sure the court sees your full story, not just a booking photo.

Civil demand letters seek money separate from the criminal case; don’t pay or sign anything until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. A private store ban means do not return—violating it can lead to trespass or new issues. $1 Shoplifting is often misunderstood. For many, it’s not about greed but about stress, pressure, or emotional pain. Courts don’t always see that human side unless it’s explained. Over decades of practice, I’ve made sure my clients’ full stories are told — so one mistake doesn’t define their future.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for shoplifting, don’t wait. Call Allan F. Friedman, Criminal Lawyer, at (203) 357-5555 today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future or use our online contact form.