Accused of Theft at a Downtown Plymouth Vendor Event? What Misunderstandings Can Lead To

Downtown Plymouth hosts a wide range of outdoor vendor and arts events every spring and summer, particularly around Kellogg Park and Plymouth Town Hall Green. Crowds of shoppers and dozens of artisan booths create a relaxed atmosphere — but they also create the conditions for misunderstandings that can lead to a retail fraud or larceny accusation.

If you were accused of taking merchandise from a downtown Plymouth vendor without paying, the consequences can follow you for years.

Michigan's Retail Fraud Statute

Michigan organizes retail fraud into three degrees under MCL 750.356c and 750.356d, based on the value of the goods involved:

• First-Degree Retail Fraud — goods valued at $1,000 or more, or $200 to $999 with a prior retail fraud conviction. A felony punishable by up to five years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines (or three times the value, whichever is greater).
• Second-Degree Retail Fraud — goods valued between $200 and $999. A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and up to $2,000 in fines (or three times the value, whichever is greater).
• Third-Degree Retail Fraud — goods valued at less than $200. A misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and up to $500 in fines (or three times the value, whichever is greater).

Larceny May Apply Instead

If the alleged taking happened from an independent vendor booth rather than inside a store, prosecutors may charge larceny under MCL 750.356 rather than retail fraud. Larceny has its own tiered structure based on the value of the property taken, with felony charges starting at $1,000.

Common Misunderstandings at Outdoor Vendor Events

• Picking up an item to examine it and walking with it accidentally,
• Taking a sample without realizing it was a paid product,
• Confusion over whether an item was already purchased by a companion,
• Disputes over price tags or refund policies.

Intent to deprive the owner is a required element of these crimes. If you genuinely intended to pay, or did not realize you were carrying an unpaid item, that is a defense — but it has to be raised properly and supported with the right evidence.

Where the Case Will Be Heard

Retail fraud and larceny cases arising in the City of Plymouth go through the 35th District Court. Felony cases are bound over to Wayne County Circuit Court in Detroit.

Why This Matters Even for a Small Amount

A conviction for any degree of retail fraud creates a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing for years. Many employers automatically disqualify applicants with theft-related convictions.

Call Boria Law Today

If you were accused of theft or retail fraud at a downtown Plymouth event, attorney Aaron J. Boria of Boria Law can help you fight the charges and protect your record.

Call (734) 453-7806 today for a free consultation.