[NorthMountain]

seeking to capitalize on Michigan’s generous 10 cents-per-bottle refund program. He stood to make $1,000.
...
As it turned out, transporting more than 10,000 bottles into Michigan with the intent to collect a deposit is a felony. …

Stealing $1000.00 in more traditional ways is also a felony.

[Olog-hai]

This is really “stealing”?

Oh yeah; because the government charges it. Even when they get something of equal (or most likely greater) value in exchange. Confiscation would be penalty enough, if one wants to be pedantic.