Sometimes. For a first conviction, an individual may be able to completely avoid jail time. However, they can expect to perform at least 10 days of community service. For a second conviction, the individual must perform at least 15 days of community service. For a third offense (or any later shoplifting offense), there is a 25 day minimum for community service. If convicted of a third shoplifting offense, then jail time cannot be avoided. The person convicted must serve at least 90 days in jail.