Repeat shoplifter faces prison for string of thefts

By Allison Scarbrough, News Editor

Boles

LUDINGTON — A 48-year-old woman with a criminal history of shoplifting pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree retail fraud and two counts of third-offense habitual offender in Mason County’s 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Oct. 8.

Nicole Lynn Boles, 48, faces a prison term for her convictions. Mason County Prosecuting Attorney Beth Hand said she is recommending a sentence of 34 months to 10 years.

Judge Susan K. Sniegowski said the maximum term for first-degree retail fraud is five years in prison, and with Boles’ habitual offender status, the maximum is elevated to 10 years.

Boles admitted to stealing merchandise from both the Ludington area Walmart and Meijer stores. The thefts occurred over several days and involved “under-ringing” food items and putting clothing items in reusable shopping bags, said Prosecutor Hand. The string of thefts occurred about a year ago.

Boles has six prior retail fraud convictions, said Judge Sniegowski, including convictions in Kent and Muskegon counties.

Sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 19 at 11:10 a.m.

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