Colorado Shoplifting Laws and Penalties
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed September 24, 2018
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
The act of shoplifting is often taken lightly in the realm of criminal offenses, perceived by many as a frivolous and harmless crime. However, it should be taken seriously, especially in states like Colorado which make no distinction between shoplifting and other forms of theft.
Theft Laws in Colorado
In Colorado, all theft offenses including shoplifting are punishable by the general theft statute. The charges and penalties for theft are based on the value of the property involved. For example, the least serious offense is a class 1 petty offense, which is a theft of property that is less than $50. The most serious charge is a class 2 felony for a theft of property valued at $1 million or more.
Colorado Shoplifting Laws and Penalties at a Glance
In terms of legal research, an attorney's statutory analysis is the best way to understand how the law applies to you. However, it doesn't hurt to read a plain language guide to the statutes as well for a general understanding of how the law works. Read the chart below to get a better handle on Colorado's shoplifting laws.
Statutes |
Colorado Revised Statutes |
What's Prohibited
|
It's unlawful for an individual to:
Concealment of Goods If an individual willfully conceals unpurchased goods or merchandise owned or held by and offered or displayed for sale by any store or other mercantile establishment, such concealment is sufficient to show a rebuttable presumption that the individual intended to the commit the crime of theft. |
Enhanced Penalties |
|
No Merchant Liability |
If a person triggers an alarm or theft detection device or conceals or carries away any unpurchased goods or merchandise, the merchant, employee, or peace or police officer isn't liable (civilly or criminally) for the following:
|
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Colorado Shoplifting Laws and Penalties: Related Resources
Find a Colorado Attorney to Discuss Shoplifting Charges
If you've been accused of shoplifting in Colorado, don't risk a conviction without talking to a lawyer. Even if you're only facing a misdemeanor charge, the harm to your record and reputation can have a lasting impact on your life. Use FindLaw's attorney directory to find an experienced defense attorney near you.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Colorado attorneys offer free consultations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.