Possession Of A “Shoplifting Device” In Bergen County: What Are The Penalties?

Modern shoplifters are becoming more sophisticated in their attempts to steal items from stores. This has led to law enforcement officers cracking down on so-called “shoplifting devices.” As the name implies, these devices are specifically designed to assist shoplifters in their alleged offenses. What if a police officer catches you with one of these devices? What is the penalty for possession of a shoplifting device in Bergen County?

Police Catch Shoplifters With “Foil-Lined Bag” in Bergen County 

In March of 2026, NJ.com reported that police officers had caught alleged shoplifters in Bergen County with a “foil-lined bag” filled with merchandise. Those in the law enforcement world refer to these as “booster bags,” and they are reportedly designed to circumvent retail security measures.

Police arrived at Westfield Garden State Plaza and caught the alleged shoplifters as they were attempting to flee in an SUV. One officer looked inside the vehicle and saw the foil-lined bag. A search then revealed almost $17,000 of merchandise, including yoga pants, men’s shirts, designer sunglasses, perfume, a purse, wallets, handbags, and other items.

The defendants now face charges of second-degree shoplifting, third-degree receiving stolen property, and possession of a shoplifting device. The report stated that they were being held in jail before their court hearing.

Possession of a Shoplifting Device in New Jersey 

New Jersey has specific laws against shoplifting devices. Under the state’s shoplifting statute, anyone who possesses a shoplifting device within a retail store faces a disorderly persons offense. As a result, you face up to six months in jail if the court convicts you of this offense.

That said, possession of a shoplifting device is almost always a charge that accompanies charges for actual shoplifting. As a result, possession of a shoplifting device is almost like an aggravating circumstance that adds six months to your sentence. That said, it is certainly possible to face consequences for possessing a shoplifting device without actually carrying out any shoplifting offense.

Examples of Shoplifting Devices 

Under New Jersey law, a shoplifting device could be anything designed to overcome security measures at a retail store. Aside from booster bags, potential examples include magnetic security tag detachers, S3 keys, sensor jammers, and much more. Shoplifters continue to adopt new technology with each passing week. That said, a shoplifting device doesn’t necessarily need to be sophisticated. It could be something as simple as a set of wire cutters or razor blades.

Can a Shoplifting Defense Attorney in Bergen County Help Me? 

If police officers caught you with a shoplifting device, it makes sense to contact an experienced shoplifting defense attorney in Bergen County at your earliest convenience. This is a relatively serious offense, and it makes sense to avoid potential penalties if at all possible. Strive for positive outcomes with guidance from Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law.

Sources: 

nj.com/bergen/2026/03/nj-mall-shoplifters-used-foil-lined-bag-to-steal-17k-in-designer-goods-cops-say.html

retailtechnology.co.uk/item.php?news_id=6746#:~:text=Shoplifting%20tools,Sensormatic%20SuperTag%20Hand%2Dheld%20Detacher.