Radicode 103 refers to Virginia Code § 18.2-103, addressing the concealment or taking possession of merchandise with the intent to convert it without paying. This act, often associated with shoplifting, outlines various actions that constitute a crime, including altering price tags, transferring goods between containers, and aiding others in these activities. This article delves into the specifics of Radicode 103, explaining its implications and potential penalties.
Defining Radicode 103: Actions and Intent
Radicode 103 prohibits the unauthorized concealment or possession of merchandise with the intent to defraud the owner. Several actions fall under this code:
- Willful Concealment: Hiding merchandise on one’s person or in a bag, for example, is a clear violation. Even if the individual is still on store premises, the act of concealment itself presumes intent to steal in Virginia.
- Taking Possession: Physically taking control of merchandise without paying, even without concealment, also violates this code.
- Price Tag Tampering: Changing or removing price tags to pay a lower price constitutes fraud under Radicode 103.
- Container Switching: Transferring items from one container to another, often to avoid paying for the original packaging, is also prohibited.
- Aiding and Abetting: Assisting or encouraging someone else to commit any of the above actions is a violation, even if the individual doesn’t personally conceal or take the merchandise.
Penalties Under Radicode 103: Petit vs. Grand Larceny
The severity of the penalty under Radicode 103 depends on the value of the goods involved:
- Petit Larceny: If the value of the stolen merchandise is less than $1,000, the offense is classified as petit larceny. This is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
- Grand Larceny: If the value of the stolen merchandise is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny. This is a felony punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for one to 20 years.
Radicode 103 Enforcement and Merchant Rights
Virginia law allows merchants and their employees to detain individuals suspected of shoplifting under certain conditions:
- Probable Cause: The merchant or employee must have reasonable grounds to believe that a person has shoplifted.
- On Premises: The detention must occur on the merchant’s property, which includes parking areas.
- Time Limit: The detention cannot exceed one hour, pending the arrival of law enforcement. This allows time for investigation and potential arrest by the police.
Understanding the Implications of Radicode 103
Radicode 103 reflects Virginia’s commitment to protecting businesses from theft. Understanding this law is crucial for both retailers and consumers. For retailers, it provides legal recourse for dealing with shoplifting. For consumers, it highlights the potential consequences of seemingly minor actions like concealing an item while shopping. A conviction under Radicode 103 can result in significant fines, jail time, and a criminal record, impacting future employment and other opportunities.
