<\/p>\n
Shoplifting may constitute theft under Article 194 of the Bulgarian Criminal Code when movable property is removed from another person\u2019s possession without consent and with intent to appropriate it. The value and circumstances determine whether the case is minor, administrative or more serious.<\/p>\n
The decisive point is when the offender establishes actual control over the item and the shop loses control. Passing the checkout or leaving the premises may be strong evidence, but is not the only possible boundary. Concealing an item can indicate intent, yet each case depends on the layout, surveillance and conduct.<\/p>\n
If the person begins the taking but is stopped before obtaining control, the conduct may be an attempt. Voluntary abandonment is different from interruption by security staff. The precise sequence on video is therefore important.<\/p>\n
A store alarm, a short clip or possession of goods should not be assessed in isolation.<\/p>\n
Low value does not automatically remove criminal liability. The court considers value together with the method, circumstances and offender. Article 194(3) or the administrative procedure under Article 218b may apply only when all statutory conditions are met, including restoration where required.<\/p>\n
The defence should examine intent, the moment of completion, ownership and value, whether payment was attempted, the full recordings, lawfulness of detention and seizure, compensation and the possibility of a lighter classification.<\/p>\n