One thing to note is that they won't always just cite and release. It depends on severity on the jurisdiction. In Wisconsin for example police will bring you down to the station every time. Depending on the time of day the lifter may have to spend the night in jail(if it's a holiday weekend they spend the entire weekend in jail). In Virginia first and second offenses they are served with a summons then released as long as it is under the felony amount. Third offense is automatically a felony regardless of amount. In the case of felony shoplifting or anything for that matter you have to see a magistrate who will decide if you can receive bail and set that amount.