Scene One: After school, Julie, Colin, and Matt stop at the local store for a snack and something to drink. Julie is by herself for a few seconds, and she slips a pack of gum into her pocket, knowing that she doesn′t have enough money to pay for all of the items she wants. She pays for her chips and drink and leaves the store with her friends.
Scene Two: Julie, Colin, and Matt only have 60 cents between them. They stop at the store, and while Matt keeps the car running, Julie and Colin enter the store. While Colin distracts the clerk, Julie puts a six-pack of beer in her backpack. They leave the store and begin to party at a nearby park.
Shoplifting is defined as taking property that′s displayed for sale, without paying for it. It′s a crime with both civil and criminal consequences. It′s also a crime that requires intent. If you were shopping and put something in your pocket, continued shopping, went to the checkout and paid for everything but the item in your pocket, you could be questioned about your intentions.
If it turned out that you had the money to pay for the item and didn′t act or look suspicious during the incident, you would probably be allowed to leave. Otherwise, you could be held for further questioning or for the police.
Scene One above presents a different picture. Julie knew that she didn′t have enough money for everything she wanted, so she stole the gum and paid for the rest. This is shoplifting, and since her friends didn′t know or play any part in the incident, they would be free to go if caught by the store owner.
Scene Two is your classic “beer run,” where all involved know exactly what′s happening and what their role is. Just because Julie took the beer doesn′t mean the others won′t be prosecuted if caught. Under the law, anyone aiding a crime shares full responsibility, just as if he or she had actually committed the act. Julie, Colin, and Matt could all be charged with shoplifting and possession of alcohol.
In many jurisdictions, a store can collect a civil penalty, plus the cost of the item taken, from the shoplifter or his or her parents. For example, the civil penalty for the stolen six-pack could be $100, plus the retail cost of the beer.
If you’re caught shoplifting, the police could refer the case to the local prosecutor who decides whether to file charges or not. First-time shoplifters usually go through a diversion program, which includes counseling, community service hours, and restitution. If you′re caught a second time, probation may be considered, with specific terms set by the court including time in detention. If you continue to steal, you could be sent to the state department of juvenile corrections.
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I have a question, my brother and I go to the store. My brother he steal the game but I didn’t know that, after he took the game card out of the box he gives the game card to me and ask me to hold it for him ( I thought that his own game, so I just take and put in my pocket). When we leave the store the guard stop us and said we are shopplifting. I really don’t know what happen, but my brother he just 15 and I 18, so when the security guard said he saw my brother took out the game and after that gave to me, but my brother younger so he can’t blame my brother and he force me the criminal because I’m 18 years old. The question is I’m innocent but the guard just want to nail me because I’m 18 I have responsible for my brother that is right or wrong.
Judge Tom’s response:
Under the laws of your state or country you may or may not be responsible for the acts of your younger brother. If you knew in advance what he was going to do, then you may be charged as an accessory to the shoplifting. If you didn’t know what he was doing, you need to explain this to your lawyer or to the court. In the United States, you are innocent until the state or local prosecutor proves beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. The final decision is up to the court to decide or the jury if there is one in this case. Good luck.
Hey, I have a question
What will i get, me and a friend got caught shoplifting from Shopko, and we are both only 15. What will be the punishment?
Judge Tom’s response:
The penalty for shoplifting depends on the laws of your state, the value of the item shoplifted [if over a certain amount it may be considered a felony], your age and history of offenses if this isn’t your first time in court, and a number of other factors. You may be placed on probation and required to complete community service hours, attend a class, or even spend time in juvenile detention if the judge thinks its appropriate. Good luck.
ok so me and my friends were gonna pull a prank we were gonna put some items into a basket and leave it by the entrance because theres a hidden hallway and we grab a bunch of ridiculous items like lipstick, chicken, silly string and markers, we didnt want to get caught for vandalism so we put the items in a bag and while we were heading to entrance by the hidden hallway the security worker stopped us and accused us of shoplifting, we past the electronic security, but we DIDNT leave the store yet with the items, can we still be cleared knowing that we werent gonna leave with the items and were gonna put them back by putting them in the basket?
Judge Tom’s response:
Whether what you did is shoplifting or not depends on the laws of your state. Even though you didn’t actually leave the store with the items, under some larceny/theft/shoplifting laws, you may have committed a crime. Look up these crimes in your area, or Google “shoplifting” and your state’s name for the specifics that apply to you. Good luck.
thanks judge tom, i hope the judge understands, shoplifting didnt even occur in our mind, when i was accused i felt so disappointed and mad all at the same time, i didnt know what to think, i would never do anything like that
Say i got caught shoplifting from one store, but earlier that day i stole things from other stores and didn’t get caught. What should i do with the stuff i didn’t get caught with?
Judge Tom’s response:
Return it. That way you can know you did the right thing and you can put it behind you. The store owner may appreciate your honesty. Good luck.
hi. im 14 years young and live in maryland and i was caught shoplifting (1st time) some fake rings and a fake necklese at JCP i dnt know that there were LPs around and i was also there with my mom,lil’ sista and uncle when my mom paid for the stuff she bought we headed to th exit door and 2 LP stoped me/us and said some stuff were stoled my mom got really scared and started overactin(since my mom had no idea tht i shoplifted) as i was qiving the item to the LPs after that they took me/mom for questioning and than the popo came and than some more questions.the amount doubled was around 200 something what can my mom and i expect when we go to jail and how long will the saty in my record? ( my mom had no idea tht i shoplifted)
thanks
Judge Tom’s response:
What will happen when you go to court depends on the shoplifting laws where you live. Since this is your first time, if the value of the items taken was small, you may be offered diversion. That means you may have to do some community service hours for dismissal of the charge. Or you may be ordered to complete a class, counseling or a term of probation. Good luck.
I got caught stealing gum two days ago, the employee told me to put it back and let me leave. I know they got my license plate on camera, but I don’t know if they called the police or not. Could the put a warrant on me with just my license plate and how likely do you think the chance is that they will call the police on me is.
Judge Tom’s response:
You may get lucky and hear nothing further about the incident. Hopefully you’ll learn something from it. If you haven’t heard from the police by now you’re not likely to but don’t gloat about it – your time will come if you continue to break the law. All the best.
Thank you, I did it completely out of impulse and I felt really bad about it. I was really worried that it would come back to haunt me during college applications next year.
Judge Tom’s response:
Even if you’re charged with shoplifting, you can ask for your juvenile record to be expunged. It shouldn’t have any effect on college applications. Study hard and good luck.
I’m pretty sure that i was might have been caught shoplifting. While i was not apprehended, i think my license plate was taken. The items in question were less than 30 dollars total.
What should i expect to happen?
Judge Tom’s response:
If you have not heard anything by now, you may have gotten lucky. However, if this incident just occurred and you end up hearing from the police, the possible charges that could be filed vary depending on the laws in your state. If this is your first offense and you have no prior criminal history, you could be placed in a diversion program which allows the court to dismiss the charges after certain requirements are met which may include probation, community service hours and payment of a fine. We certainly hope you learned your lesson from this incident. Good luck.
i got caught stealing $30 worth of stuff and i’m 18. They didn’t call the police but i’m still getting fined and other things. i’m scared that i won’t be able 2 get jobs. I’ve never, ever done this before and i’m scared. please help.
Judge Tom’s response:
Even though they didn’t call the police, I’m assuming a complaint was made and charges were filed in court since you are paying a fine. Be sure to read any job applications carefully as many ask if you have any “felony convictions”. The answer would be no if either misdemeanor charges were filed or no charges were filed. Once you successfully complete the terms of your probation, you can go back to the court and ask for the conviction to be set aside or for your record to be expunged. If you were not arrested and charges were never filed in court, then you have no criminal record concerning this incident.
Dear Judge Tom,
I have severely learned my lesson. This incident happened yesterday. How long before i know for sure that i am in the clear? I’ve been worried sick and severely and sincerely regret making such a stupid decision.
Judge Tom’s response:
Ellen, I’m glad you’ve learned your lesson. If it’s been a couple days by now and you haven’t heard anything, there’s a good chance you have gotten lucky. Every state has what’s called a “statute of limitations” for filing charges. For example, the statute of limitations for filing misdemeanor charges in some states is one year. That means the state has up to one year to actually file the charges. Again, if you have not heard from the store or police by now, it’s unlikely that they are pursuing an investigation.
hi. me and two of my friends got caught shoplifting today at claire’s for items less than $50. we all are 14 years old and we have never got caught stealing before. we have to go into a family court for a lecture from the judge. will this go on our permanent record? will they inform our school?
Judge Tom’s response:
When you’re before the judge, ask him or her these questions. Every state has its own laws about disclosure to schools, and juvenile records. Make this your last trip to court. Good luck.
I was caught stealing when I was 16, there were fines but the store said that they weren’t going to press charges. Does this mean it won’t be on my record? (I live in Mass. if that helps.)
Judge Tom’s response:
It could mean no record. It depends on if formal charges were filed with the court. Check with the police agency involved at the time – see if they have any record of the incident and if they referred the case to the local prosecutor or juvenile court. Good luck
Will my parents be involved if I got caught stealing in Illinois at age 17 (considered an adult there) if I live in indiana or can i go to court and do everything myself? Also, what consequences will I likely face (I stole a 10$ bottle of alcohol from kmart)? Lastly, how much money will I lost likely be charged altogether? I’m not trying to get myself out of a bad situation because I’m a bad person, I have a clean record and I am generally a good person, altough, I had an alcohol problem and this was definately a slip for me.
Judge Tom’s response:
Call the Illinois court and ask these questions. They should be able to tell you if your parents need to be involved and the process to handle the shoplifting charge. You can expect possibly a fine, maybe restitution to the victim and some community service hours. Stay clean and sober and your legal troubles will end. Good luck.
Hi, i’m 17, i was caught ’shoplifting’ in a food store. I had no purpose to steal the fruit but i was going to buy the fruit. It happened like this….i had two large folders in both of my hands. i picked up the fruit i was going to buy and put it in my pocket since both my hands were full. i looked around the shop to see if i needed anything else and i didn’t. then i started walking out of the shop. It wasn’t until a while later the that shopkeeper tapped me on the shoulder and said that i have stolen the fruit. It was then that i remembered the fruit was still in my pocket. Honestly, i had completely forgotten about it! i tried explaining to him but its hard for him to believe. Of course, i wouldn’t believe if i was him. Fortunately, i paid back the money. He didn’t ask for name and address and no police were involved. How do i know if i will face any charges, fines or going to court? It’s only been two days since the inccident.
Judge Tom’s response:
It sounds like you’ve lucked out and won’t hear anything from the police or court. If he didn’t take your name, etc. there’s little chance you’ll be charged with shoplifting. Of course there’s always a video that may have captured your movement in the store. If, by chance, you end up in court, explain to the judge what happened. What you’ve described is not uncommon. Yours truly has done exactly the same thing at Home Depot without any intent of not paying. Good luck.
hi, i was caught shoplifting about a month or so and i have to go to court in about a month. i stole some perfume and they took me in the security office and took down my information and called a police women as well. She got my information down as well and called it in and gave me a ticket for my court date. Then my step brother came to pick me up from the security office and told me i just have to go to court. i live in New York and i wanna know what might happen? .. this is my first time and trust me i will never do it again.. but i also want to get a job and have an interview a few weeks after my court date … will that show up in my record? because i really need a job and if i have a record it will be harder =/ help?!
Judge Tom’s response:
Make sure you show up on the date set for court. Things will only worsen if you blow it off. If this is your first offense, you could expect some community service hours, a fine, and restitution if the victim is asking for it. Read any question on an employment application very carefully. If you’re in juvenile court, remember you’re not a ‘convicted criminal.’ If anything, you may be an ‘adjudicated minor.’ Language is important, but you must be truthful in answering. Good luck.
me and my firends both r 13 and we got caught shoplifting at cub foods the cop said we have to go to the court but there is another way that we dont have to but they will give us a phone call and tell us what to do but im wondering can me and my friends just do the community service and dont go to the court or do we have to?
Judge Tom’s response:
In most situations you don’t have a choice. It’s up to your local police and prosecutor and the programs available in your area. If you can do community service rather than going to court, that’s best. You may also be able to avoid a juvenile record by completing the diversion program. Good luck, and pay for what you want, or you’ll pay for it later in ways you won’t like.
my friend and i stole from a store, for the first time. we got caught. i don’t know why we did it.. we really had no intentions on taking anything, but we did. cheap, one thing. and the cop charged her with a misdameanor and me only a warning, we have court on the 5th of novmeber. what is going to happen? and will i get any court fines or anything? and will it go onto my record, bc i have to sign up for colleges soon. and i’m scared.
Judge Tom’s response:
If you were given a warning, you ordinarily wouldn’t be going to court. Your friend may be facing a fine, restitution, community service hours, counseling or probation. It’s up to the judge. Depending on the amount involved and your age, you may or may not have a juvenile record. If you do, you can ask for it to be expunged or cleared once you become an adult. Good luck.
hi, I got caught shoplifting for the first time and im 19…
i have being charge to court… What will happen to me???
xxxx
Judge Tom’s response:
If this is your first offense, you can expect restitution to the victim, community service hours, counseling, a fine and/or probation. The judge could also detain you for a short period depending on the shoplifting laws in your state. Good luck and think twice before re-offending because consequences increase.
i live in minnesota, and im 13 if i do the commuity service how long do i have to do it
Judge Tom’s response:
It’s up to the court and/or your probation officer how long you’ll have to complete the hours you have to do. If you have a legitimate reason, you may be able to get an extension of time, but don’t count on it or put it off to the last minute. Good luck.
Hi, I have a question about shoplifting; I got arrested, went to a diversion program, paid a fine, and never went to court. If an employer were to do a background check would they be able to find anything? Would that incident be considered a slap on the wrist to behave since I have completed everything that they had asked?
Judge Tom’s response:
If you completed the diversion program, it’s not likely that there’s a record available for anyone to see. Juvenile records aren’t usually public, and you haven’t been “convicted” of a crime. You may consider it a slap on the wrist, but if you get another citation, the juvenile court will know about this incident, and it will be taken into consideration. Good luck.
hi, my sister shoplifted at rite aid and she’s 13. they (police) said it was informal and she will not go to court, does this go into her record and is her school notified? will this effect her getting a job or anything in the future?
Judge Tom’s response:
If your sister does not have to go to court, but has to pay a fine and possibly complete community service hours, it’s likely that your sister’s case has been referred to a “diversion” program. If she successfully completes the diversion program and does everything she is asked to do, she should not have any record of the incident and it should not affect her education or employment opportunities in the future.
Im 18 (Canada) and I was caught shoplifting at The Bay, it was a pair of Guess Jeans about 100$, the guy was from loss prevention and i had to go into a back room, he got my info such as my first and last name, my adress and he looked at my care card and SIN number, i told him the truth that i hadn’t stolen anything before and that it was just a stupid dare. They checked into my criminal records and stuff and then said i was getting off with just a ban. Should i be expecting something in the mail? a fine? will it go on my criminal record? Im also going to be going to school to be a cop so…?
Judge Tom’s response:
James: Depending on the laws in your province, you may be getting off easy with just a ban from the store or mall. If the storeowner doesn’t report the theft, you’re not likely to have a record. Google “shoplifting” and your province’s name and you should be able to bring up the current status of the law. Think before you repeat this behavior, especially if you’re going into law enforcement. Good luck.
Dear Judge Tom,
Thank you for my prior response. My incident with shoplifting happened about 6 years ago in the state of Michigan. I am now 22 and is currently having a background check for my future job. The shoplifting event will not show up at all on my record or will it show an arrest? Would the arrest effect the position? Like I said before I went to a diversion program and also paid the fine but never went to court Therefore you said I was never convicted. I received a call from the recruiter that my background is going through court investigation. It was a stupid thing to do and I have never came encountered with the law ever since then but I did file a domestic violence report, could that also be why I am in the court system? Thank you for your time. Your response is greatly appreciated.
Depending on the laws that apply to you in your state, filing a domestic violence report as an adult could be a matter of record that could trigger further investigation. DV, as it’s referred to, is serious business nationwide. It’s not an incident taken lightly anywhere. Good luck.
Hi my name is Tennile im 21 and i got arrested for fighting with my neighbors and the police charged me with reckless endangerment then later on my neighbors called the police on me again and they charged me with assault my neighbors lied on me a lot so i have to go to court next month and im wondering what will happen
Judge Tom’s response:
Tennile, askthejudge.info is a teen-law web site and doesn’t provide legal advice or interpretation of laws. We can tell you that, as an adult, depending on your past record, if there is one, you may be facing time in jail or prison, a fine, restitution, counseling, and/or community service hours while on probation. Every state is different in how they treat criminal acts. You’ll most likely be assigned a probation officer who can explain the process to you and what to expect. Good luck.
my friend stole a shirt from a local store and when walking out a person from the store told him to stop. my friend denied having the shirt but the store clerk then said come with him, my friend took off running and got away. He recieved a phone call from an officer and his car was identified. he did not answer the officers phone call and just listened to the officers message telling him to come back to the store. He did not come back, nor has he heard word from the officer for over a week. He has 3 prior records including battery and possesion of paraphanlia. what should he expect?
Judge Tom’s response:
Since his car was identified and it’s likely the store clerk can also ID him, he can expect notice in the mail of a citation or charges filed, or maybe an officer at his door to serve him legal papers. A week isn’t very long following an incident like this depending on the size of your town and other factors. So he can’t rest easy – it would be best to face the music by returning the shirt and speaking with the storeowner and police. Good luck.
my friend got caught shoplifting at walmart in canada and she got arrested because she is 18. She has a court date but she is worring about her crimal record. Will it stay on her record for life? Will she recieve a letter in the mail saying anything about this?
What is going to happen
Judge Tom’s response:
Generally it depends on the amount of the item stolen. We are not familiar with specific criminal laws in Canada and don’t want to mislead you. It would be best to speak with a lawyer, or Google “shoplifting canada” for advice and information from Canadian attorneys. Good luck.
regarding the last post: she took around $150 and i googled it but she is really worried about it staying on her record and her court date isn’t for another two months..will it stay ?
Again, you need to check with local counsel about this. The laws vary from province to province as you may know. Contact a private defense attorney in your area or public defender’s office for information.
Hello, i’m 18 years old and i was in wal-mart this past weekend with a friend and she’s 15 and we got caught shoplifting and this was my first time and they let her go cause she was underage and i’m stressing out about whats gonna happen tome
i was arrested and have to go to court and i’m very scared! can you tell me what might happen to me?
PLEASE
Judge Tom’s response:
If this is your first offense, as you stated, relax. You’ll probably meet with a court official [probation officer]. You may be offered a diversion program depending on the value of what was taken. This would include community service hours, a fine, restitution to the victim or counseling. If diversion is offered and you agree to the terms, make sure you finish everything on time. You may be able to clear your record later on. Even if you’re placed on probation, it may be for a short time while you meet the terms ordered by the court. Good luck.
My friend was questioned by the lost prevention officer at work, all in all, he admit to stealing items total to no more than five dollars. After reading a few papers he sign them, however, he clearly remembers nothing about any statement that lets the lost prevention officer place this five dollar mistake on his record. So can the lost prevention do that? Plus, without providing him a copy of what he signed?
And, now he cannot get a new job due to the five dollars.
Thank You!
Judge Tom’s response:
When your friend was hired, he probably signed some paperwork that included the terms of employment. They may have covered consequences of workplace mistakes or inappropriate acts, including noting such in his employment record. Under the laws of your state, he may be entitled to a copy of his record and disciplinary action. Good luck.
I heard of a policy a Wal-Mart
“If a person if under 18 and gets caught shoplifting under 25$ they are free to go with no involvement of the police” Is this true?
Judge Tom’s response:
You would have to find out from Walmart what their corporate policy is concerning shoplifters. However, a policy is usually used as a guideline and is not the law. The store managers can always take whatever action they believe is appropriate under the circumstances and normally stores will refer a shoplifting case to the police.
i was caught shoplifting in toronto canada, they didnt do anything just a paper to go to court and afeter that i didnt go to court since i was by myself in that country with not family not place to live( i was staying at my friend´s place) and i decided to come to my country to get some money and go back, now i paid what the store wanted me to pay and i am planning to go back to canada, since i am resident, waht could happen to me???
Judge Tom’s response:
Because you missed court, the judge may have issued a warrant for your arrest. On the other hand, since you paid the store back, it’s possible that the charge has been dropped if the store decided that it was satisfied and the prosecutor asked the court to dismiss the case. It could go either way. Call the local prosecutor’s office and ask what the status of the case is – then you’ll know what you have to do. Good luck.
Me and my friend were in kmart and we got caught stealing a 12 pack of beer, they trespassed us and let us drive away but told us to tell our parents to call him by friday(it was saturday on halloween) he said if he didnt get a call then he would send a unit from our county to our house to tell them for us. do you think he will actually send one? or just said it to scare us. please help im scared and i dont wanna get grounded, im 16 btw. thanks
Judge Tom’s response:
It’s hard to tell what the store owner will do. Even if the police come to your home and tell your parents, grounding is better than the consequences you’ll get if you go to court. You have many years before you’re 21, so slow down on the alcohol use and possession. Most states have increasing consequences when you’re caught including detention. Good luck.
hello i live in nova scotia i was supposidly caught for shoplifting at a local bargain shop ( my 1 1/2 year old daughter had a toy i was unaware of and i left without paying, it was still in the box and not hidden so obviously i wasent trying to ’steal’ it or i would have least taken it out of the box or hid it somewhere) anyways they called the police but i was not fined, charged etc. they took my name and address and told me i wasent allowed back in the store and i was alloweed to leave. my question is i am in the process of getting a criminal record check done for my work and i am wondering if this stupidity will shop up on it. if it will be on it then at least i can be honest with my empolyer before they receive the results so i dont look like im hiding the fact etc. i duno i dont feel i stole but obviously the store did and although the store n police didnt do anything i am scared that it will show up anywho just wondering what you think thanks
Judge Tom’s response:
What you did is not uncommon and most store owners understand. Since you weren’t cited or arrested, it’s doubtful whether there is any official record of the incident. And whether it was entered into the criminal justice computer system is remote. If you lean towards explaining the incident to present or future employers, feel free, but it’s unlikely that it would show up on a records check. All the best.
ok a couple of days ago i was at ross in florida my friend from school called me to go to K-mart so i did i walk in the store and i see anothr kid from school and i asked him if he had seen my friend he said yea he is at the front so i go and i see him at the cash register buying gum and i said wats up to him and then he got his receipt from the lady and we left then as we were walkin i saw he took out some mittens and he told me to hold them as we turn the corner there was 2 cop cars and 1 of the cops came out and stopped him and in my mind i was like he probably stole stuff so i got scared i dropped the mittens and kept walking because none of the cops stopped me so im walking home later that day he called me saying that he gave the cops my number but not my adress so iwas wondering if im goin to juvy im 14 years old and i live at florida
Judge Tom’s response:
Unless you’re charged or cited for shoplifting or as an accessory to the crime, you probably won’t be “going to juvy.” Your friend may have given the police your number so they can verify his explanation of what happened. Good luck.
Dear Judge Tom,
My sister, who’s 13 years old, and I (im sixteen) got caught stealing from claires that’s worth about $5 dollars, the store asst. manager who caught us said that she’s prosecuting us. we are banned from the mall for a year, and a month had passed and we recieve nothing, but i just recently got a called from the police from the mall, and asked my parents and they are not present at the time, they did not give the info. but im assuming its about the crime my sister and i committed. it was our first time doing it, and it was very stupid. i was just wondering, what will happen to us? will it be on our permanent record? will we have to pay a fine? (we didnt pay anything when we got caught, we just returned the item and they made us sign papers).
Judge Tom’s response:
Any number of things may happen. First, tell your parents about the call from mall security so they can contact them and hopefully resolve this. The store could decide to follow through with charges which would mean you’d be going to court or possibly a diversion program. Diversion usually includes work hours, a fine and/or restitution. Or you could be placed on probation for a period of time. If none of this happens, you don’t have a juvenile record with the court. Stay away from the mall this next year or things will get worse. Good luck.
I am 16 (almost 17)and I got caught shoplifting two tubes of lipstick (no more thatn $20 total) at a sears in california and the LP guys took me back to their office where i returned the items. Then they called my dad who signed a form saying he knew he had to pay the civil demand (?)there was no police involved and they didn’t prosecute me..
i feel really bad about it and i have definitely learned my lesson especially since i have never shoplifted before. It was a first time offense..
so i was wondering if i have some sort of criminal record now.
Also will they tell my highschool that i shoplifted and will this affect my college apps?
And if i do pay the civil demand in full is it likely for them to still press charges later and send me to court?
thank you so much!!
i am so worried over this whole issue and i am scared that i have ruined my life in a matter of minutes!!!
please help me!!
Judge Tom’s response:
Anna, because you were not arrested or charged in court with shoplifting, it’s unlikely that you have any criminal record. You can call the clerk of the juvenile court in your county and ask for a copy of your juvenile record to confirm that there is nothing on it. It’s also unlikely that the store will try to press any charges for two tubes of lipstick after you have paid the civil demand. Finally, colleges do not usually ask for juvenile court records and since you most likely don’t have a record anyway, this incident should not affect your college application process. We hope you learned a valuable lesson from this experience.
hi again..
i have one more question to add..
if i just pay the civil demand and the store doesnt press charges or anything will this whole incident pretty much go away? as in i dont have to worry about it anymore cause the whole thing will be over..
like if i had to do a background check or something in the future this would not show up right?
i am just really worried that this will come back to me somehow in the future and how this will affect me…i was such an idiot!!
thank you judge tom!!!!!
Judge Tom’s response:
Anna: In most situations, the matter stays with the store and there’s no “criminal record.” It wouldn’t be reported to any college or university and because you haven’t been charged or convicted of a crime, there is nothing to report on job or college applications depending on how the question is phrased on the application – read it carefully and answer it honestly. Good luck.
well i was caught shoplifting cold medicine(i wasn’t going to get high off of it, my friend convinced me to do it with him). And it was a stupid action and i know this, i have another small misdemeanor but it was sapost to have been wiped clean off my record after i got off probation for it. I’m in Michigan so what is going to happen to me?
Judge Tom’s response:
That depends on the laws in your area, your record of offenses, especially if the first offense is still on your record, and what the prosecutor decides to do. You may be placed back on probation with additional terms. Think before you do something that you know is wrong. As your record grows, so do the penalties. Good luck.
hi im 15 and i got caught shoplifting at walmart 6 months ago in woodbury MN. i went to a class and paid the fines. i was banned from all walmarts. last month i got caught again with some friends in hudson WI at walmart. the same guard that caught me in woodbury caught me in hudson. i got a tresspassing ticket and a court hearing ticket and the items ticket for $240. Whats gonna happen to me? am i too young to be put on house arrest? Am i gonna go to jail? Am i gonna be put on house arrest? Do i have to do community service.
Judge Tom’s response:
Dear Angela: Any of the consequences you mention are possible. What will happen depends on the laws in your area regarding shoplifting and the court’s practice. Many courts follow a practice of increasing consequences as you continue to break the law, so detention is possible. If a court officer [probation or intake officer, for example] has been assigned to you, call him or her and ask about the process and what may happen. Good luck.
last month i got caught shoplifting at wal-mart..and it was my first time…they filled out papers, but did not take my picture..and the cop knew i learned my lesson and dropped all charges but the wal-mart security said i wasnt allowed to go to any wal-marts in the world at all anymore for as long as i live…is that true?
and the wal-mart people ended up sending me something in the mail that said i had to pay them 100$ within 20 days, and that if i dont that they will have there client take further civil action…can they do that after saying that im just not allowed to go to wal-mart anymore and that they werent going to do anything else?…
p.s i recommend for anyone not to steal, even if you dont have the money for it,wait till you get money…because honestly its not worth any of this…=(…i let my parents, family and myself down by doing what i did, and even if my record goes clean at 18, ill still have to live with the fact that i did something stupid like that…
Judge Tom’s response:
First, your advice to others at the end of your question is good. We hope you have learned something from this experience. The store does have the authority to ban you from its premises since you were caught stealing. Under the laws of the state you live, they may also be allowed to impose a civil penalty for shoplifting. You can check this by Googling your state’s name and “shoplifting” and read what the consequences are. Good luck.
I was caught shoplifting $34 of make up by an undercover cop at bartelles and was taken in the back and gave my name, address, number, and Soicial security number. I was told I was going to be sent a court date and a fine in the mail. How much will I probably have to pay and what will happen? Will this stay on my record?
Judge Tom’s response:
Erika, you will know alot more once you receive the letter in the mail. It should explain your rights and how to resolve this case. If you are offered diversion [fine, work hours, etc.] you may not have a record. There will likely be someone’s name and phone number in the letter if you have additional questions. Good luck.
I got caught shoplifiting from wal mart recently i know it was really stupid of me and i will NEVER do it again bt i am 19 and the guy took back into his office checked my bags adn said that this time im not gonna go to jail but he did ban me from all wal-marts nation wide adn said that the lawyers are going to send me a fine in the mail and that i have 3 weeks to pay it afte i get it or i go to jail, but when i asked about court he said i didnt have to go because i did not get arrested, btw i live in maryland and i am 19
Judge Tom’s response:
You got lucky this time. Under your state’s laws, this form of diversion keeps you out of court and record-free. Follow the terms of the letter. If you have any questions about what you’re asked to do, call your local public/legal defender’s office or legal aid. Good luck.
HELLO. I HAVE A QUESTION. I HA JUST HAD A COURT CASE WHERE I HAVE TO DO DIVERSION PROGRAM AND COMMUNITY SERVICE BUT I CANT GET ARRESTED AGAIN WITHIN THE NEXT YEAR. I JUST ARRESTED TONIGHT BECAUSE I WAS WITH SOMEONE WHO STOLE $30 WORTH OF BABY FORMULA. NOW I HAD TO GO TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND EVERYTHING. I HAVE COURT NEXT WEEK. WHAT DO YOU THINK THEY WILL TELL ME? WOULD I BE ABLE TO JUST PAY THE $30 FINE?
Judge Tom’s response:
It is entirely up to the court and the diversion officer that you worked with on the first offense. If you violated the terms of diversion, you can expect the consequences to be greater. If you are charged with a new offense and either admit or are found guilty of it, you may receive probation. Good luck.
I am a visitor from other country, and I was caught for shoplifting. Police didn’t come, just security there took my ID and I payed money and filled out some papers,I was banned from the store, he took my picture and told me that he needed it in case if I come back, so then they arrest me. Do I have any record now?
Judge Tom’s response:
From what you’ve stated, the only “record” you have is with the store. The store owner may choose to report this incident that can result in formal charges. Be sure not to return to the store and aggravate the situation. Good luck.
i was caught shoplifting and have to go to court in a few days. that day i shoplifted from a few stores. i shoplifted earlier from this one store and got away with it. then i went to some other stores in the mall. i went back to the first store and tried to shoplift more but got caught as i was leaving. they took the stuff i stole from the day and made me take out what i stole when i got caught. i took out the stuff from the second time, but not the first. the cops and store security looked in the bag but didnt notice the other stuff because it was all in bags from other stores names. the amount i was charged with is 175 dollars. i was arrested and everything, but the cops said i wont be jailed, just fined, community service, and/or a class, and in a certain time, it can be expunged. we got a lawyer that we know well but i havent told him or my parents the whole story. is it best to just keep quiet and hope the cops either gave it back or the store just decided to let it go, or will they charge me for that too. its been about 3 days since, and i havent heard anything about it. i really learned my lesson, and i just want this all to be over. i understand that i plead not guilty and then go to a trial where we work out what i must do.
im 17, female, and probably the least likely person to ever do this. ive gone to catholic school my whole life and i work in a church. im ashamed, embarrassed, and really want this to be over with. please help.
Judge Tom’s response:
Jamie – based on what you’ve stated, we think you know the answer and the right thing to do. We cannot provide you legal advice about how to proceed, but you should level with your lawyer and listen to his or her advice. Good luck.
can you tell me if the store knows that stuff is mine. or do they deal with so many cases a day that they dont notice. do the cops just give it back. or is the store security that returns the items to the other stores. if i was already charged with 170, can they look back and see that i did it twice and charge me for the other items even if its after the fact. would they notify me or would they save it for court. do they usually go through camera footage to see what exactly happened or do they just follow the police report
Judge Tom’s response:
The answers to all of your questions, Jamie, are based on local law and practice. You need to run these by your lawyer.
hello i was recently accused of shoplifting and it is my first offense. the cops gave me the charges and court date. however, i too had other stolen stuff confiscated that was not seen by the store that caught me, but the cops said they would give the bag of items back to the store to put back. my question is… can new charges be brought up in court that i was not aware of until i went to court, or would i have to be notified about all charges before going to court, so that i may be able to get the proper lawyer and be prepared for what i will encounter.
im not sure if i was descriptive enough. the store did not realize i had more stolen goods in my possession from their store.. but when the cops bring the bag back, i am sure they will realize. is it required to notify me before i appear in court or are they allowed to simply not say anything about it until court. i am from long island, NY.
Judge Tom’s response:
Due process of law requires that you be given notice of all charges filed against you and a right to be heard. So, if there are additional charges filed out of this shoplifting incident, you’ll be advised before you go to court or at that time and have a chance to discuss the situation with your lawyer. Good luck.
Hi Tom,
I just got caught shoplifting. It was very stupid of me, but what’s done is done. The store was H&M and the LP person told me I had to pay a fine to the store, around $200 to $300 and I am banned from all H&Ms worldwide. He got my information and a picture and everything. It’s such a waste because I actually like that store. The LP person told me that it is up to the police officer to decide what happens to me and usually, for first time offenders, they just get off with a warning. I was feeling better, and the LP person acknowledged the fact that I do not seem like the type to shoplift, and he was right. I was dared and was too scared of the consequences if I didn’t obliged. It didn’t occur to me that shoplifting is a greater offense. I was stupid.
So, the police officer came and he asked me questions and I thought it was going rather well until he told me that he will give me a call tomorrow whether I will have to go to court. I gave him my cellphone number as I do not want my parents to know what had happened just yet. I am 19. He didn’t get any information from me, but he did get information from the LP person.
I am terrified because I still want to go to a reputable school and earn a degree and have a job. I am so scared this will go on my permanent record and I won’t be able to pursue my dreams. What will happen with me in this case?
Judge Tom’s response:
Even though you’re an adult, if charges are filed, they’ll most likely be for either a petty offense or a misdemeanor depending on your state’s laws. Most states have a process to obtain a clean record after all court proceedings are done and full compliance with court orders are completed [work hours, counseling, a class, restitution, etc.] You may not hear anything further about this and, if so, consider it a valuable lesson. Good luck.
Hi again.
Thank you for your response and yes, I have learned my lesson. I will never ever do anything that can and will jeopardize my future.
But another question, the officer told me he would give me a call today, which is the day after the incident. I told him I was going to be working until 5:00 pm and he said he would give me a call after 5. It is more than 2 hours past 5:00 and he hasn’t called yet and I was wondering if I should give him a call back. I don’t know if giving him a call would make my situation worse.
Judge Tom’s response:
It may or may not. If he said he’d call, wait for him to do so.
I got caught shoplifting, first offense, and the LP guy was writing down my police case file number. I am banned from the store and I have to pay a fine to the store. He said it is up to the police if I will need to go to court and that it is separate from what the store is charging me. The officer didn’t give me much information but she did give me her business card with my case file number and she said she’ll contact me. The number wasn’t the same as the one that LP guy wrote down. What does this mean?
Judge Tom’s response:
A police report usually has one number, a DR or Departmental Report number. That’s more than likely what the officer gave you. The number that the store’s Loss Prevention person wrote down was probably the store’s own number to record the incident and it’s only for internal use with the store. Good luck.
hola senor tom. so i was at b&n and bought a boxed set series rhere waere 6 of em and the boxed set had only 4. so then i impulsively and stupidly took them too thinking to myself i shp here so much and spend an average of at least 200 a month it should be a free gift. then at target i told my mom bout these too books i wanted put em in the kart left her and wen i got home asked her did she pay and she said no i told u to put it back in the store AND FLIPPED. i feel really bad but got wat iwanted 2 advice?
Judge Tom’s response:
George, we think you know what the right thing to do is – either return to the store and pay for the item taken, or return the item and explain what happened. Bad deeds have a way of coming back to you. Good luck.
Hey, I was just caught at kmart shoplifting about $18 worth of food. The cops weren’t called and i was cooperative, they had me fill out some paperwork and they have my ss# and the things i had to sign said that they could sue, but the lp guy said they probably wouldn’t since it wasn’t a whole lot of stuff and i was being cooperative. am i going to get a letter soon saying that i have to pay a fine? they never mentioned anything about a monetary penalty… and will this go on my record in some way since they have my SS#?
Judge Tom’s response:
You’ll have a “record” with the store, so if they told you not to return, don’t. You may hear from the store requesting a civil fine [allowed in many states] which may be around $100 to $200. This is different from a criminal charge for the offense. Unless you’re formally charged and have to go to court, you shouldn’t have a juvenile record with the court. Good luck.
Hey, I was just caught stealing a game from wal-mart. The game was only 10 dollars, and I had no prior intent to go in and take it. The only reason i took it was because i saw it, and really wanted to play it, but did not have enough money on me to buy it, and so i just slipped it into my pocket. I’m 20 years old, and this is my first offense ever. What is going to happen to me most likely?
Judge Tom’s response:
Hi Jason. Most likely, you won’t hear anything further. If you hear from the court, you may be offered diversion which means you’ll do some community service hours, pay a fine, take a class and/or pay restitution. Stay away from the store for as long as they told you to, otherwise you could be cited for trespass if you return. Good luck.
Oh, also, all that happened when i was caught was that i went in and filled out a sheet explaining what i did. The wal-mart people took my information (social security number, name, address, etc) and then gave me a lecture. then They took my picture and told me never to come in again. What am I looking at as my punishment? again, this is my first offense ever and i am 20 years old. See Jason’s first message for Response.
Judge Tom,
Hi im 24 in CA. I was caught 3 days ago in target w a shopping cart full of stuff trying to leave the store, LP stopped me took the cart and didnt ask for any info and let me leave the store (i was with my baby). i have done this a bunch of times before at this same store. do you think they will come after me by pulling up my license plate or off the cameras? what should i do to prepear myself for the worst? i am not going to enter target anymore and i def learned my lesson and am getting help w my addiction. any advice? i cannot sleep at night im
worried sick!
Dear Missy: With a “shopping cart” full of items, you may receive a notice in the mail about consequences that may include a fine to the store, or notice to appear in court. If you’re charged with shoplifting you can expect a fine, restitution, counseling, work hours or probation. Depending on the total value of the items, it could either be a misdemeanor or felony. Get some help before this gets out of hand and you’re facing a lengthy sentence. Good luck.
When I was 17, i got caught shoplifting, something small under $10. There was no police involved, but they called my father to come pick me up from the store. they wrote down some of my info and my state ID #. How long will this stay on my record? Will the employers be able to see it if they do a background check? The incident happened over 3 years ago and I was never caught or arrested for anything else. I’ve been trying to get a city job and they deffinately do background checks.. I didn’t get the job I want and I’m afraid it is because of
something stupid that i did when i was younger
Dear Red: The chances of there being a formal “record” of this incident are slim. If you didn’t go to court, participate in a diversion program, or have any contact with the police, the only evidence of this may be in the store’s possession. It shouldn’t keep you from future pursuits. Good luck.
When i was 18, i got caught shoplifting an item at a store. the item was less then 30 dollars and i live in california. i am wondering when i go to court, and this is my first misdemeanor and crime, what punishment would i face?
Dear Trey: If, as you said, this is your first offense, you’re likely looking at a fine, restitution to the store, community service hours, a class about theft and the law, and possibly counseling. It’s up to your probation officer and the judge. Good luck.
P.s. When i go to court, it is necessary for me to get my own attorney?
Trey: It’s up to you to either accept the appointment of a public defender, if you’re financially unable to hire your own lawyer, or get your own. The process and your options will be explained to you at your first appearance in court.
I’m 18 i just got caught shoplifting. I was brought in to an office no police were called and I was told a letter will be sent to me in the mail from the company from which i stole the item headquaters in which would be a fine. also i signed a form that the woman told me stated that it means I cannot go onto the property of the store for a year. The police were not called. What all is going to happen? this isn’t going to be put on a criminal record correct?
Dear Daniel: If the police were not involved and you’re not formally charged with shoplifting, you won’t have a criminal record. It sounds like the store is handling it themselves, which is their decision. Follow the directions in the letter you receive that may include a fine of several hundred dollars, and the trespass notice to stay away for a year. That’s a pretty common consequence. Next time, pay or save the money until you can buy it. Good luck.
Heey i jusst got caught shop lifting =\ i refreet it and wat i took was about 80 dollars this was at jcpeenny and i dnt know what’s gonna happen I’m scared they hand cuffed me took me down to the polica and asked me for my name took pictures of me I’m really scared what do yoou think is gonna happen ? =(
Dear Janeet: If you end up in court, you may be sentenced to pay a fine, restitution to the victim, complete community service hours, attend counseling or a class. It depends on your history, the amount taken, and your attitude. You may also be put on probation for a period of time. Good luck.
I (age 23) was Caught shoplifting in florida worth 3 dollars. a cop was called and present but they did not inform me i was arrested and i did not have to sign anything. i then paid for the merchandise and they gave me a verbal trespassing warning and i was free to leave. my boyfriend was also with me and they took his information but he also did not sign anything or was informed that he was arrested. will anything else happen now? and will my boyfriend be charged with anything?
thank you for your advice.
Dear JR: It sounds like this is the end of it, unless either of you return to the store. Then trespass charges could be filed against you. A shoplifting charge could be filed anytime before the statute of limitations runs [usually a year or two] but usually in cases of a first offense and little value that’s been repaid, you may not hear anything further. But every state handles these cases differently. Good Luck.
I just got caught shoplifting about 9 dollars worth of merchandise. It was the first time and they took me in a room, got my info, like my ss#, address, phone number, but didn;t call the cops. They had me sign a notice for a choicepoint thing, which I’m not exactly sure what it is, but didn’t say anything or give me anything about civil demand. Does this mean I don’t have to pay, or will I just get something in the mail. Also, will this prevent me from getting jobs in the future?
Dear Chrissy: You may get something in the mail from the store with directions in how to avoid prosecution. They will likely fine you a certain amount and maybe require some community service hours. Whatever they require, met the deadline to avoid further action. If this is diversion, you won’t have a criminal record. Good luck.
IF A 15 YEAR WAS WITH PARENT AND THE MINOR GOT CAUGHT SHOPLIFTING. PARENT OFFERED TO PAY FOR ITEMS BUT SECURITY JUST TOOK PARENT AND CHILD TO BACK AND FILLED OUT A REPORT. THEY TOOK PARENTS ID AND JUS CHILDS NAME AND ADRESS. POLICE WERE NOT CALLED N NO PICTURE TAKEN. NO SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER TAKEN. SECURITY WARNED CHILD NEXT TIME WILL BE ARRESTED. IS THIS THE END OF THIS OR WILL THEY FURTHER PURSUE
Dear Layla: It is the store’s decision whether to pursue prosecution for the shoplifting. It sounds like it may end with the warning given and possibly a letter with a demand to pay a civil fine. If that’s the case, paying it on time should end this incident. Good luck.
The other day I was caught stealing two 30 packs of beer from the supermarket, a total of $34.00. Stupid, I know. Upon leaving the store I was approached by a surveillance person, who asked me for a receipt, I told him I didn’t have one, and then ran away. A police officer eventually found me across the street, handcuffed me, brought me back to the supermarket where the surveillance person did some paperwork, and then I was taken to the police station where I gave them all my information, fingerprints, and picture taken. I’m 19 and I live in New York. What should I expect? Thanks
Dear Pat: Since you’re an adult, but under age for alcohol, you could expect a citation for shoplifting or theft, and possession of alcohol. You might get a notice by mail of a court date and any charges filed against you. Don’t miss court or a warrant for your arrest could be issued. If you find yourself in court, your rights and possible consequences will be explained to you. It may include probation, a fine, restitution, community service hours, and counseling. Good luck.
Thank you very much. My court date is tomorrow (I scheduled it while ate the police station) is there anything i can do to prepare myself for it? I’m at school and I cant afford a lawyer, should I worry about that? Lastly, according to what I’ve read so far online, one of my options might be diversion… what exactly is that and would I qualify for it? Thanks again.
Dear Pat: If this is your first offense, you may qualify for diversion. That means if you agree to complete some work hours, counseling, pay a fine, etc. the matter will conclude with no criminal record or court proceedings. You may meet with a court officer who will explain this to you. You may be asked about finances and be offered a public defender if charges are filed. All the best.
I got caught by whole foods loss prevention, Cypress Security, and they are charging me a civil demand of 500 dollars, for a 4 dollar item. I did not have to go through police, what should i do? Can they really charge me that?
Dear Matt: Under the laws of your state, this amount may be a legal civil remedy for shoplifting. Google the name of your state and “shoplifting civil demand” and see what you find out. The store may choose to take this route rather than refer you for prosecution. Pay the amount by the deadline given and the matter should be closed. Good luck.
The above is information only, not legal advice.
I was caught stealing when I was 16. The police were called and the store told me that my parents would be fined and that they weren’t going to press charges. For college applications, I’m asked,”Have you ever been convicted of a misdemeanor, felony, or other crime?” How do I respond to this?
Dear Michelle: If you were only fined by the store and never went to court, you haven’t been convicted of anything and you don’t have a record. So you can answer no unless you know otherwise. Read all questions on college and job applications very closely. Good luck.
Ok so me and my friend were caught shoplifting for the first time at a belks in north carolina. We are only 14. The cops got our names, and address’s, etc. they also gave us a court date. we are really scared of whats gonna happen. the merchandise we took was about 200$ added up together. we dont know whats gonna happen. so i was wondering what the judge could do to us? and will our high school be told?
Dear Corrinne: Since this is your first offense, you’ll probably meet with a court officer and everything will be explained to you. You may be offered diversion which means if you complete some work hours, pay a fine, pay restitution to the store, or attend a class, the matter will be closed. Or you may be placed on probation with similar terms. When you turn 18, apply to the court for a clear record. Good luck.
[This is information only, not legal advice.]
So on black friday me(18) and 3 (17,17,15) other girls got caught shoplifting @ a georgia walmart for clerance cameras which totaled to 214.00.. The store records said 214 on each of our papers and 65.00 on the police papers.. He gave us each a citation that said we had court in jan. This is my first offense. What will they ask me in court? Will we have to tell a story? And will this stay on my record? I heard that in ga your 1st offense can be expunged…
Dear Maria: First, when you go to court, the process will be explained to you. You’ll meet with a court officer and may be offered diversion. That means you can choose to complete work hours, attend counseling and/or a class, pay a fine and/or restitution to the store. Once you complete the terms, the matter is closed with no record. If you plead guilty, your sentence may include the same as above and after a certain period you can apply to the court for a clear record. Colleges don’t usually ask for juvenile records or records of minor offenses (traffic, etc). On your college application, read the question carefully and answer truthfully – if you complete diversion, you weren’t convicted of a crime. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Cont… the yellow citation paper said misdemonon.. Do jobs and colleges care about misdemoners? And is that on my record at this very moment? Or until court?
See answer above to Maria’s first question. Thanks for writing.]
Hi, my friend and I who are both 18 have just gotten caught shoplifting at TJ MAXX in Ohio. they totalled the things she had stolen to about 34 dollars, and mine to 22. We were taken down to the police station wherewe were finger printed and photographed. I know this is on my permanent record, so I was wondering if there were and way to get this exponged? Also, while they were getting our information, they asked for my “emergency contact” info, so not thinking, I said my mother and her phone number. They never asked my friend for this info.. she has been 18 for 8 months, and I have for four. Do you think even though I am 18 they will call my mom? And what do you think will happen in court? We payed nothing the day it happened and got out on a signature bond. We have court the 8th of Dec.
Thanks!
-Amy.
Dear Amy: Since this is your first time, you may be offered a diversion program instead of formal prosecution. This means, if you agree, you’ll have to either pay a fine and restitution to the victim, complete work hours, a class and maybe counseling. You avoid a record by completing diversion. Or if you plead guilty, you may receive the same consequences and can ask in a year or so for your record to be expunged. Every state has different rules about destruction of records and clearing your name. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Judge Tom, in August of 2009 ( 4 months from my birthday on december 8, making me 18), I got caught shoplifting from a local walmart in Virginia. I took an I.D card holder and a tie, and the total came up to 10 dollars. Since I am 17, cooperated, and the total of what I took was under 25,and it was my 1st ever offense, the lady let me off easy. She said I don’t have to go to court, pay a fine, or anything. No police were involved or nothing. All she did was jot down my information, and called my mom to pick me up. She said this isn’t going to be on my record, but I am in the walmart system, so if i caught doing the same act within a year. I will be arrested and put in jail and etc. My question is, how long will i be in the walmart system?
will it be for a year? and am I still allowed to shop there?
Dear Eric: This is a common response to first time shoplifters. Your name and info could be in the store’s system for some time, at least a year. Unless you were told at the time you got caught to stay out of the store, you could probably return. Stores often trespass a shoplifter for a period of time and/or assess a civil demand [fee] which you’d be notified of by mail. We’d recommend staying away from the store for awhile – once you’re 18 in December, you can be prosecuted as an adult with adult consequences. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
i am 15 years old and i was caught shop lifting. Really dumb descion I know. But anyway I have to go to court and i was wondering if i’m going to have to tell a story or get up on the stand on something? And this was the first time i’ve ever done this. My mother has to pay a fine, so will i have any other punishment? Thank you so very much again.
Dear Amanda: When you go to court, you’ll probably meet with a court [probation] officer who will explain the process to you. Since this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion which means if you complete work hours, pay the store restitution, attend a class or counseling, etc the case will be closed and you won’t have a record. If you plead not guilty it will be set for trial before a judge. If found guilty, you may be placed on probation with the same terms listed above and you’ll have a juvenile record. Good luck.
[This is information only, not legal advice.]
Hello people, I was caught last monday evening shoplifting, very dumb of me, it was’nt a lot just a few dollars worth of crap, but I’ll cut to the chase, Lost Prevention stopped me just before I walked outside with it and asked me to follow him to his office so I agreed, ok long story short the police were not called my picture was not taken no finger prints non of that stuff, the only thing the LP guy asked for was my Driver’s License and my phone number and asked me a few basic questions, when he got done he told me to never return to the store or I would be arressted so I agreed to never return, he also gave me a three page paper, two of the papers had Pennsylvania’s laws and what not, and the first page says That I would be getting something in the mail, what will I get in the mail? how long will it be till I get it? I am 23 live in PA, I have never done this nor do I know what will happen, Please Help, Answers Please!!
Dear Chris: What you might receive in the mail is a “civil demand” which is a fine that the store may collect in shoplifting cases. Usually around a few hundred dollars if assessed – pay it on time and this incident will be over. Also stay out of the store or they can press trespassing charges against you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
what are some good place to do community service???
Dear Melody: Many places that use volunteers allow you to complete community service hours for school credit or for the court or diversion program. Animal shelters, homeless meal kitchens, libraries, parks, Boys and Girls Clubs, etc are good places to check. You can also call your local juvenile court or probation office and ask for a list of places to do community service. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
I live in texas, i was in a walmart sunday nov. 29. I was in the autoparts section and had grabbed a box of licence plate bolts woth around $3. I continued browsing and croutched to look at another item that was close to the floor. I put the bolts in my hoodie pocket so i wouldnt forget them when i got up. After a fer minutes of looking. I put it back got up and cotinued browsing the store for thing i might want for christmas. I had been in there a while and was leaving when i realized i had the bolts still in the hoodie. Before i had the chance to go back to pay for them the LP lady rushed to me and accused me of shoplifting. I told her i knew of the item she meant, haded it to her and told her i didnt mean to take them. She took me to a room, asked me questions, and asked for my ID. Im 17 and considered an adult. She scanned my ID and took my info. She told me they were not going to call police and that i will be getting a letter in the mail. Then she sent me on my way. As i was in there i told her of a couple who actually were shoplifting. She listened but still didnt believe me when i told her i didnt inted to take the item.
Dear Vincent: If the Loss Prevention lady accepts your explanation of what happened, you may not hear anything further. They have your contact information, so it may be wise to stay away from the store for awhile. Or you may get a letter from the store requiring payment of a civil demand [fine]. If you pay it, the matter will be closed. You could decide to fight it and then you can explain what happened to a judge who will decide the consequences. Talk this over with your parents in deciding what to do. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
dear judge tom.
I shoplifted about a week ago and got caought taking a $20 video game in kmart, took it out of the box and put it in my pocket. they called the cops and i got busted before i even walked out of the door. its my first offance im 14 y.o., and live in lake county florida, and i make good grades and am in njrotc. what will my charges be, will they put it in my reccords, and will i get kicked out of rotc.
please help im nervous that it will affect my future carear in the millatry
scott
Dear Scott: Since it’s your first offense, you may not be prosecuted for shoplifting. If you weren’t given a citation or told to appear in court, this may be handled by the store. You may get a letter in the mail from the store requiring payment of a civil fine. Pay it on time and the matter may be closed. If you go to court you’ll likely receive work hours, a fine, counseling, a class, or restitution to the store. You may not have a juvenile record so it shouldn’t affect your ROTC or military plans unless you do it again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I am 13 and i live in wisconsin. me and my friend stole $2 eyeliner from Shopko and we got regular police fines, and shopko is sueing us for $150+ can they do that? will this be on my record for getting a job? is there a way i can get out of paying this $150+ fine?
Dear Taylor: Yes, the store can fine you and $100 to $200 is common around the country. If you pay on time and no further action is taken, you won’t have a juvenile record. If it happens again, you may be prosecuted and end up on probation or in detention. Stay away from the store, especially if you were told not to come back. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE ADVICE YOUR GIVING EVERYONE YOU ARE A VERY HELPFUL PERSON! I know I will sleep better tonight knowing i will not have a record and I know many others are releived at what you have told them I personally think that you are a great help to people that do not know whats gonna happen when they go to court or anything to do with the matter! Thank you so much for the help! -Amanda
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE ADVICE YOUR GIVING EVERYONE YOU ARE A VERY HELPFUL PERSON! I know I will sleep better tonight knowing i will not have a record and I know many others are releived at what you have told them I personally think that you are a great help to people that do not know whats gonna happen when they go to court or anything to do with the matter! Thank you so much for the help! -Corrinne
Dear Chris: What you might receive in the mail is a “civil demand” which is a fine that the store may collect in shoplifting cases. Usually around a few hundred dollars if assessed – pay it on time and this incident will be over. Also stay out of the store or they can press trespassing charges against you. Good luck.
thanks for the comment………..what do you mean by if assessed….how long does it usually take for this civil demand to come in the mail? and why a few hundred dollar fine for somthing that wasnt even over 3 to 5 dollars?? will they press charges or any thing like that or would it really like for real be done and over with if I were to pay this civil demand if I was to get one??
Dear Chris. Stores usually send out their demand letters for payment of a civil fine within a month of the incident. The laws of your state authorize them to fine someone caught shoplifting and the amounts vary from state to state. You could also be prosecuted for the same offense – these are civil and criminal remedies for the crime. Usually both don’t take place, but it’s possible. Read the papers you were given carefully and follow the instructions about paying the fine. If it’s not included, then you’ll receive additional instructions in the mail.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello Judge Tom. I am 16 and was caught shoplifting today($600 worth of things)in one of the Sears stores in California. But I seem to have problem recalling what happened. When the police officer asked me, I was so blanked out. Even now, I still can’t remember what happened. How it started, how it went..all that problems. I realized I was in trouble when I walked out with a bag full of stolen merchandises and was stopped. What’s going to happen to me?Are the police going to inform my school, my teachers about this? Is my school going to force me out? Are they going to kick me out? What is going to happen to me? Fines? Jail?
Thank you so much for answering my questions.
Dear Eva: If the store and the prosecutor decide to charge you with shoplifting, you’ll receive notice in the mail of your court date. Don’t miss it. You’ll meet with a court/probation officer and the process will be explained to you. If you’re guilty, the court may sentence you to probation, a fine, community work hours, a class or counseling, or detention if the judge thinks it’s appropriate. You might be eligible for diversion if this is your first offense. Ask the probation officer about that. The police don’t normally notify schools about off-campus incidents, unless it endangers the school in any way. Stay away from the store. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
We live in California and My son and his friend got caught shoplifting at Macy’s worth 635.00 for him and 450.00 for her . He has a cutter since they plan this to give a gift to a friend the officer said he can be charge for felony because they plan this but is their 1st offense both very good kind I don’t know what will happen.
Dear Alexis: As minors and their first offense, they will meet with a court officer and the process will be explained to them. Shoplifting may be a felony depending on the value of the items taken. They are looking at possible probation or a diversion program that would include restitution to the store, work hours, a fine, class, counseling or even detention if the court decides it’s appropriate. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi so yesterday my friends and i shoplifted from a few stores but never got caught but and im scared that i am on survellience cameras at one store the clerk kept eyeing me the whole entire time at another store even when my friends and i finished putting things in our pocket and were just playing around smelling perfume and giving each other makeovers. He never once approched me but im soo scared that the police will call my parents or show up at my door. I think i just need reasurance that the police wont show up because they dont have any information on who i am. I know what i did was completly wrong and i will never ever do anything stupid and reckless like this again because i am so scared.
Dear Alli: You should be scared since you broke the law. However, if you weren’t stopped and neither the store or police know your name, address, etc. you may not hear anything about this. You’re on tape now, so if you return to the store and shoplift again, things will be different. Talk this over with your parents and how remorseful you are about what you did. The truth wins out in the end and you’ll feel better about yourself. They might want you to go back to the store and apologize which would be the right thing to do. We hope, Alli, you’ve learned from this. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi judge.
im 18, i was caught stealing from the walmart around the corner from my house. they made me sign papers. took a picture of me. i was arrested for the first time ever in my life. i disappointed my family and i disappointed myself i havent even looked in the mirror since. im so embrassed. my mom was so angry and disappointed in me. i feel really bad about stealing from walmart and it will never happen again. iwill never a day in life ever steal again. i didnt like being in jail with murders. my crime as a misdemeanor it came out too $24.00. i got a ticket the week before for loitering is that a criminal act. there wasnt a sign saying we couldnt be there and we wasnt warned to leave. i go to court jan 2 2010 for loitering. then i go to court feb 25, 2010 for the shoplifting. do still qualify to plea first offense since i got a loitering ticket? how do i go about getting the first offense diversion? and can i get this off my record once im done with the first offense? i have no juvenile record. im in college will this affect my student money, because i dont have a job? and i planned on payin my fees with that. i live in GA. i really scared. i dont want to ever go back to that place ever.
Dear Ashley: If there is a phone number for the court on your papers, call and ask if you can schedule the hearings for the same time for both tickets. Since these are your first offenses, and the loitering being minor, you may be offered diversion. If so, complete whatever the agreement is [work hours, a fine, a class, etc.] and then both will be resolved. Depending on the laws in Georgia, you may not have a “record” following diversion, or you can apply to have it cleared after a period of time. Either way, they shouldn’t affect your college plans or future job applications. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi. yesterday i got caught shoplifting at target. im 16 and live in california. it was my first time stealing and i really regret doing it. i took little cosmetics, about $30 dollars worth. they put me into a room and i returned everything and answered all questions honestly. since i was cooperating, they released me to my mother. they didnt call the police. i didnt have to pay any fine or go to court. they just got my name address school licesnse plate number, and other information. im still allowed to go to target, but they sent my picture to other targets so if i ever were to go into one, they would watch me. im really scared that this incident is gonna come back to haunt me. how long will my picture be in target? is this on my permanent record? if so, for how long? will my school be notified of this? will it come up when i apply for college next year and future job applications? please help, im really freaking out, i wish i had never done it.
Dear Amanda: It sounds like you’ve learned a good lesson. You’ll probably not hear anything further about this incident unless you do it again. The store will keep their record on you, but it’s not likely to go any further. There shouldn’t be a formal charge since the police weren’t involved and you don’t have a juvenile court record. It shouldn’t affect any college or job applications, so count yourself lucky this time.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi, i got caught shoplifting 11 months ago at a Sears. I went through a diversion program so my misdemeanor could be expunged. I learned my lesson. Trust me!! But today at Macy’s when I was in the fitting room I took in a lot of items and laid them down on top of my purse which was open because I had just taken my phone out. A small flimsy shirt got in there and I did not even notice because I was too busy talking on the phone. When I was leaving an LP office stopped me and told me to give them back their shirt. I repeated that I had not taken anything to which he grabbed my hand and said that he would slam me on the floor if i did not cooperate. When I saw the shirt I was dumbfounded. The cops came and gave me a ticket for a court date. I paid a fine to Macy’s today and the Loss Prevention officer told me that the video tape would not be used unless my lawyer subpoenaed it. I plan on getting a lawyer. Is there any advice you could give me? I am a college student in Florida. What are my chances of beating this??
Dear Giovanna: As far as “beating this” charge, you’ll need to discuss that with your lawyer since you plan to get one. We assume you’re 18 or older since you’re in college, so you’ll be treated as an adult and not a juvenile. Explain the circumstances to your lawyer and maybe you’ll be able to complete another diversion program or be dealt with leniently if this is your first offense as an adult. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
do i call the state court or the recorders? one of my court dates is recorders and my second court date is at state do i call both of them?
Dear Ashley: Since you’re in two different courts, you need to call them both. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi, my brother and I (both adult) were caught shoplifting at Canadian Tire. It was a stupid stupid mistake in our behalf. I dont know what we both were thinking and now we both regret it
.
Long story short police was called and we both got the court date.
It is our first time and we both have a clean record.
What are the consequences. Do we need a lawyer? Is there going to be a criminal record?
Dear Barbara: The charges and consequences you are facing depend on the laws of the province you live in. In the U.S., shoplifting charges can be filed either as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount that was stolen and whether it is a person’s first offense. You should be notified of your charges and whether counsel will be appointed to represent you at your first court date. To find out more, try googling “shoplifting” and the name of your province. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
I got a citation for misdeaminor and larceny. Once my court date arrived, i went to the clerk office, and they couldn’t find my records anywhere. so I left my citation with the clerk. she said she will talk to the police officer who wrote my citation. but when i called her back she said the police officer had to look back in his records. So i’m guessing he never filed my charges, and it’s been 2 months since my accident. My friends been in a similar situation, he was charged with a theft felony, but the police who was suppose to file his case never did, and when his court date came, the police officer retired, so the judge or the DA dismissed his case. He came out with a clean record and didn’t have to pay any fee. So i’m very confused, What could this mean? and is this a good or bad thing to happen?
Dear Lily: You may have gotten lucky if either the officer did not file his paperwork/report or the prosecutor’s office declined prosecution. However, this is something you should not count on as normally police reports are submitted and charges are filed. Every state has a “statute of limitations” for filing misdemeanor charges, which means that the officer still may have several months to file the incident report. Make sure the court has your correct address and contact information because if charges are filed and a court date is set, you need to be sure to appear in court. If charges end up not being filed, we hope you learned a valuable lesson from this incident. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Dear Judge Tom,
I worked at Target in Florida and got caught shoplifting a coffee maker that cost a little over $100. I couldn’t afford it, and wanted to give my girlfriend a nice gift for her birthday, so I turned to something that I would not normally do: petty theft.
I am 23 and have never been convicted or even associated with any crimes before. My question is: how much of a fine should I be expecting and what consequences am I looking at on my permanent record?
Sincerely,
John
Dear John: Since you are 23, any charges filed against would be filed in adult court. Based on your lack of criminal history, it is possible for your case to end up in a diversion program. This means that you could avoid a criminal record if you pay a fine or restitution to the store, complete community service hours and complete any required counseling or class. If diversion is not an option, you may face similar consequences while being on probation. Shoplifting fines vary from state to state. When you go to court, you should have an opportunity to speak with a court officer and ask him/her about how much of a fine you may be facing. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
I am 17 years old and I got caught shoplifting it was a 1 gigabyte DDR ram worth $54.95 and i opened the package in the bathroom and put it in my pocket and as I was walking out on the first door where the scanners are at a man stopped me and said I know what you did now follow me before they started questions he asked me if I have any jobs then he asked if I had a id card on me (I didn’t) so at that time a police officer said and I quote “That’s not good” so I give him my info everything but my ssn but my dad came in and gave him all his info including ssn and they wrote me a citation which reads my crime as “robbery” I know mostly what they can get me for is larceny this is my first offense to will this be on my record? I live in Arkansas
Dear John: Since this is your first offense and you’re a minor, you may be offered diversion which will keep your record clear once you complete the terms of the program [for example, work hours, a fine, class or counseling]. What you describe isn’t robbery. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi,im 14 i live in maryland i got shoplifting few weeks ago in Jc penny,this is my first time stealing i steal about $40,i know was stupid for stealing and i will never do it agin in my life ,so a lady who works their took to this romm and she check me and she found a shirt in my bag,then she call the police,and they told me i have to pay the price twice as much and i have to go to court,but they havent send me the date yet,but from jc penny they sent me a letter it say i have to pay $81 and i did bt didnt say anything abt court,so i was wondring what will happen in da court,do i need a lywer,will it be on my record forever and will they tell my school?
Dear Tanya: Police don’t usually tell schools about kids who get caught shoplifting. If you are given a court date, the process will be explained to you by a court/probation officer when you go. Since it’s your first offense, you may be offered diversion which means you’ll complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend counseling or a class about theft. You may have a record but talk to the court officer about getting it cleared once all of this is resolved. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello,
I’m a 19 year old college student and about 3 months ago, I was accused of shoplifting in Icing.
I’m a very indecisive shopper, and was meandering back and forth trying to decide if I wanted a pair of earrings, valued at $10.50, or a nail polish for $4.50 and I’d already picked up sunglasses off the sale rack.
Unfortunately, I have a habit of picking. I pick scabs (horrible and gross, I know.), sunburn, stickers, and anything that’s peeling. Well, the sticker on the back of the earrings was peeling, and I subconciously started to pick at it whilst decided on a nail polish color. I’d walked away to back to the sun glasses rack to make sure that they were really $2 so I’d have enough money, and then came back to the earrings, realizing that the pair I had in my hand was no longer there. Apparently, I’d dropped them, and they fell in my hot topic bag, which I hadn’t realized until the assistant manager stopped me on my way back to the earring rack, made a huge scene, and called the mall cops on me.
I was taken away after she took her time getting my info, and sat in the back of the mall for 4 hours until the state cop came, searched through all of my belongings, arrested me, and took me to the station.
After being terrified out of my wits and afraid to tell anyone about the whole ordeal, I finally told my parents because I was becoming physically ill from the stress. My intention was to plead guilty and try to get probation before judgment since this is my first offense, and all I wanted was for this horrific ordeal to be over with. But since my parents got involved and got a lawyer, they told me to plead not guilty and wouldn’t let me pay the $150 charge to drop all of this nonsense. So, I went to my arraignment and was told that if convicted, I could end up in jail for up to a year, or have $2,000 worth of fines.
I’m terrified and would much rather die than go to jail for something I did on accident. My lawyer is going to fight saying that I hadn’t even tried to leave the store with the earrings. What are the chances that I’ll be proven not guilty?
Dear Kate: That’s a question even your lawyer would have difficulty answering. But he or she should know best, since they know the community, the judge and have sized up your case by reading the police reports, etc. There are no guarantees that the decision will go either way. Talk this over with your lawyer, and stop ‘picking’ unless you’re in the produce section.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi, the other day I got caught shoplifting from Macys with an $80 shirt. About a halfhour later, the security guards and a cop came and arrested me at the mall. I have an upcoming court date. While in court will they ask if I have shoplifted before this? Is there any possible way they can know? Can they search my house for any stolen items? And I am 16 years old. Thanks
Dear Joe: Once you’re in court, you may be asked a number of questions. You’ll meet with a probation or court officer and the process will be explained to you. It’s not likely that your house would be searched unless the police have probable cause to believe stolen items are there and they have a search warrant. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi, i am 34 years old, yesterday my cousin asked me to take her to the boscovs store in reading PA to get some stuff not knowing her real intentions. well we got cauth and i said we because i did bought something and after i found out she was stiling i let her used my bag to put her stuffs, we was taken into an office the LP only took my information because my cousin didnt have any ID on her,i was so upset,scare and ashame because i have never done anything like these before. i am so afraid. the LP didnt make me sign anything no police was called (that i know)they just told me that a letter will come in the mail with a penalty or something like that.
will it be on my record?
what should i do? Please help i am going crazy about it.
Dear Tatiana: Askthejudge.info is an educational web site for teenagers about the law. You may read some of our responses to similar questions from teens to get an idea of how shoplifting is handled by stores and the justice system. We don’t provide legal advice to adults or kids for that matter, just information. Good luck.
Dear Judge:
Thank you so much for answering. I will definitely stay away from the store, and stay away from troubles. I will be the best I could be.Again, thanks a lot.
God Bless You,
Eva
Hello i have an upcoming court date in maryland. i have been charged with eight counts of theft and one count of scheming. i was cought taking money out of the registers when i worked at target. the total was over 500 dollars which is a felony. i am a first time offender however and have no previous criminal record. i am receiving therapy right now. do you think that is a good way to show the judge that i am never going to steal again? Is there anyway to avoid jail time in this situation?
Dear Nick: Anything you can do to improve yourself is a good thing and the court may take it into consideration. As far as avoiding jail time, that depends on the facts of the case and the specific criminal laws in your state. If you have a lawyer, ask him or her what they think will be a reasonable sentence in your case. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was caught shoplifting from Kohls. I am being charged with retail fraud of the 3rd degree. The amount taken was around 85$. The police were called and I was taken in for fingerprints/picture. I was released by $50 cash bond. My court date is a week from tomorrow. I was told I would be appointed an attorney by the court since there is no way I can afford one. I am 20 years old and this is my first offense ever and I am very scared of what will happen. I live in Michigan and I know that HYTA is available. Bottom line if you could give me some advice on what to do/expect I would appreciate it.
Dear Nicole: Once you get to court and meet with your lawyer and/or probation officer, the process will be explained to you. You may be eligible for diversion since, as you said, this is your first offense. Or you may be placed on short-term probation with terms that you’ll need to complete [work hours, a fine, restitution, etc.]. Tell the truth and you’ll be able to put this behind you soon. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear judge Tom, a few days ago my friend and I got caught shoplifting from a macys. I only took one item, a 65 dollar pair of sunglasses, I did not go to macys intending to shoplift but rather buy christmas presents for family and friends. This decision was completely implusive and I am sincerely ashamed of my actions.
I am prepared to take responsibility for my actions and pay my civil demands and court fees as possible as I am able. I am 19 years old and This is the first offense I have ever committed in my entire life so i would like to apply for pretrial diversion. But I cannot find any reliable information on how to go about getting it. I would hire a lawyer to help me figure it out but I only work part time because I am a student in college and cannot afford to do so. A friend told me that since my crime is so petty that I will not be able to get a public defender. Is this true? If so could you give me information about how to apply with for pretrial diversion? Am I supposed to speak with the judge about it before the hearing, or request it during? and do I have to be sentenced beforehand?
As I have said this is my first offense so I am unsure of what to do, I am prepared to take responsibility for my mistake but my future is very important to me, and I just want a second chance to have a clean record and be a law abiding member of society. Thank you.
Dear Samantha: Since this is your first offense, you may be eligible for diversion if it is offered in your area. It’s entirely up to the laws and practices of your city/town. If you have a court date, the process will be explained to you. If you don’t, then pay the civil demand and the case may be closed with your only record being with the store. If you’ve been cited into court, you can call the court in advance of your hearing date and ask for information about what to expect. Good luck.
This is information only – not legal advice].
Thank you I will call the court tomorrow.
Just today, my 13 year old sister was caught shoplifting at Claire’s in San Diego. She took three necklaces retailing at about $8 each. There were no police, but the manager had asked for my dad’s driver’s license number and address. She says that she will send the information to the corporate and if they decide to prosecute, then a court date will be mailed. This is her first offense.. will there be a prosecutiong? Will there be a fine? What will be the consequences?
Dear Mindy: Since this is your sister’s first offense and she’s 13, you may not hear anything from either the police or the store. The store could impose a civil fine that she’ll be required to pay [or your parents] and then the case will be closed. We hope she’s learned something from this experience. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was arrested for shoplifting. I’m 17 and I will be tried as an adult, however this is my first time being arrested and I was never read my miranda rights. I was cuffed to a bench, questioned, photographed, had my finger prints taken and was given a courtdate. Can I “get off free” because the officer didn’t tell me my rights?
Dear Rose: Whether “Miranda” applies to your situation is a case specific determination. Discuss the facts of your case with your lawyer and he or she will decide whether to challenge any statements you made to the police. It’s not an automatic “get off free” as you suggest. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have a couple more questions…since I am 20 is there any way my parents will find out about this? I am too ashamed to tell them. Second how long do HYTA/diversion programs usually last? Last how much do you think I am looking to pay?
Dear Nicole: Since you’re an adult, your parents shouldn’t be involved. Diversion programs vary in length from state to state. You can call the court and ask for general information about their program. The same with fines – they vary in different court jurisdictions. You could ask about this as well when you call the court or public defender’s office. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
So today i was caught shoplifting some batteries at walmart today. it totaled to around $6. The Lp caught up to me as i was walking out the door. he took me to back and took my information and told me i would receive a letter for restitution. NOW my main question starts here… i am currently on probation and i am wondering if my probation officer will hear about this? Oh and i am in texas.
Unless the store or the police contact your probation officer, it’s not likely he or she would be notified of this latest incident. It’s always best to play it straight so you might consider whether you’ll tell your PO or not. One of your probation terms requires you to stay out of trouble and not break the law, right? This one is your call – talk it over with your parents. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i was caught shoplifting at a food store(los angeles, california) and i have court in 2 days. what should i expect or what are they going or tell me?
Dear Kyle: You’ll meet with a court officer [probation officer] and the process will be explained to you. If this is your first time, depending on your age, you may be eligible for diversion. That means if you complete work hours, pay a fine or restitution to the store, a class or counseling, the case will be closed and you won’t have a record. Otherwise, you can plead not guilty and go to trial on the charge, letting the court decide your guilt or innocence and penalty. Good luck.
This is information only – not legal advice].
Hello,
I got caught shoplifting and I’m 19 and I’m wondering if I really have to pay the store the fine they issued me. I know I have to pay the fine that the courts issue me but do I have to pay the fine that the store told me I had to pay them? And also how am I going to pay the fines that the court issues me? Do I have to pay them upfront? What if I can’t pay up front? Is there some kind of payment plan?
Dear Charissa: Yes, you do have to pay the civil fine the store imposes or they can sue you for it which will increase the amount you’ll owe them [including their attorney fees]. As far as the court, they will work with you and put you on a payment schedule that meets your financial situation. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have a friend that is on probation and was with a friend that was caught shoplifting. My friend was also given a ticket to appear in court because they were together. What will happen to my friend that is on probation?
Dear Patrick: What happens to your friend on probation depends entirely on his part, if any, in the shoplifting incident. If he was involved and is charged, it will affect his probation. It could be revoked and he’d be facing jail depending on his record. Otherwise, if he’s not involved, his probation shouldn’t be affected unless he violated any of its terms such as associating with the other friend who shoplifted. Good luck to your friend.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi Judge Tom,
I am currently a university student in the state of Washington (age 23). Yesterday, I got caught shoplifting at my University Bookstore, but my case is a little different. You see, at the end of every quarter, there is what we call “Textbook Buybacks,” in which students sell back their textbooks back to the bookstore for a fraction of the price. I did an awful thing by basically going into the bookstore, picking up a new textbook and re-selling it back to them. I was caught, and it was worth about $130. The store security pretty much detained me, had me fill out some paper work, said I would have some civil fines to pay coming in the mail for me and that I should be expecting some court orders/documents 1-3 months from now. I am banned from all University Bookstores nationwide, no police were involved, but I’m sure they’re sending my information in.
I feel horrible. Just thinking about makes me so sick and upset that I can’t even eat; it’s consuming my thoughts, so I’m really hoping that you can answer some of my questions so that I may be somewhat at peace with myself for the time being.
I did this because I needed a little extra cash for the holidays. I wanted to get something a little special this year for my family, and now I realize that this was not worth it. Instead of enjoying my time with them now, it is spent looking up what will happen to me.
Judge, I am very scared. I am so sorry for what I have done (believe me, I won’t be doing it again) and I don’t know what will happen to me. This is my first offense ever, and I will be graduating this coming June. I will be applying for grad school this year, and if I don’t get in, I want to be able to at least find a job. I am devastated that this could prevent me from getting one. I know what I did was wrong, and I’m willing to face the consequences… only, I don’t really know what they are?
I am willing to pay the fines, since I know I am at fault. I’m just scared about the court process, moreover, my criminal record. I am willing to do community service or whatever it takes to make this go away, but I’m scared that it will forever remain on my record. Is there any chance, at all, that after doing what is asked of me, that this won’t go on my record? I know that is usually the case with juveniles, but I am an adult, so I just want to know what is most likely going to happen.
Thank you in advance, and I’m sorry for the long novel I wrote here.
Dear Jasmina: Since this is your first offense, you may be eligible for a diversion program that your local court/prosecutor may offer for this type of offense. If so, you’ll have to complete community work hours, pay a fine, complete a class or counseling, etc. Once done, the matter is closed and you don’t have a record. Even if you have to go to court and you admit the incident, the consequences are similar and once completed, you may apply to clear your record after a period of time. Every state handles shoplifting differently, so you need to ask a court or probation officer what is the policy where you live for adults. This won’t ruin your life or future opportunities – but you need to deal with the consequences as soon as possible so you can put this behind you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello, I was arrested for shoplifting and went to court. I was seventeen so they said they were going to fix my record due to my age and they said if I didn’t get into trouble for 6 months, the case is over. Does this mean it is totally gone. If I want to pursue a career in criminal justice for law, will this situation affect anything. Am I allowed to?
Dear Darcy: It means it will be gone once you complete the terms required of you. This is “diversion” – a common procedure for first time offenders of lesser crimes. You won’t have a “record” and will be able to go forward with any education, military and employment opportunities. Just don’t become a repeat offender. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have a question regarding my son who is 15. He got caught shoplifting today at walmart the amount was a dollar and some change. They called the police and filed a report and now we have to go to court. Is there anything I can do to keep him from having to go to court? I even offered to pay the dollar as I did not even know he did this and they refused to take my money. Is there anything at all I can about this? I live in TN
Dear Kerri: You need to appear in court with your son and take care of this. It may involve a diversion program which means your son will have to complete a class, counseling, work hours or pay a fine, and the case will be closed. As long as he doesn’t repeat this behavior, his future shouldn’t be affected. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear Judge,
Background: I am a 17 year old girl that attends a very prestigious school, has good grades (4.0), and has done community service (+200 hours).
Scenario: On December 8th, I went to Macy’s with two friends with no intention of stealing. We came in the store to shop for christmas presents. While shopping, I realized all the nice things that I wish I could afford to give as presents to my family. I stole a bit less than $100 worth of merchandise and was caught. While in the loss prevention office, I texted my friends that I got caught and the woman in charge took my phone away and questioned me about the text. My two friends left about an hour later. I was then arrested, printed, given a citation and released to my mother. My court date is in February.
On November 18 I went to target with the same two friends with no intention of stealing. I actually bought about $30 worth of food. However while shopping my friends decided to shoplift make-up and I was peer pressured into doing the same. The whole time I didn’t want to do it and I was very scared, but I have friendship issues and I didn’t want to show that I was a “wimp.” I was caught again with about $250 worth of merchandise (most of which weren’t even mine) and had the same process repeated. My court date is in March.
I know you won’t believe me when I say I will never shoplift again, but I really learned my lesson this time. I have completely stopped talking to those girls and I am really hoping that I can do something to lower my sentence or not have to go to jail. My 2 person (mom and me) home income is is less than 10,000 a year and I really don’t think I can afford to pay all the fines.
Please, help me. I am so scared and I really want to find redemption.
If it helps, my first arrest was in Torrance and the second was in Cerritos.
Thank you so much for your time.
Dear Donna: It’s good that you’ve recognized the influence of these so-called friends and moved on. Now you have to acept the consequences of your actions. Since you’re a minor and these are your first offenses, you may be offered a diversion program. That means if you complete work hours, pay a fine and/or restitution, attend a class or counseling, the case will be closed and you may avoid a record. You may also be put on probation for a brief period with the same terms. Follow the court’s orders and you can put this behind you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Judge Tom, I;M a 61 year old lady who is on medications now ,and lost my husband and have a brother dying from cancer in my home state of n.c ,i live in georgia and i was in wal-marts about half out of my mind with every thing going on in my life and its x-mas and i can;t go home ,but i am being honest its the first time i have ever done something so dumb ,and i know better why i don;t know maybe attention i don;t lie and was caught shoplifting nothing big just a few small things and the lady that caught me was so rude to me and i take care of my godfather also who is 89 and i am stressed out ,the lady is black and i begged her please i will pay for it ,just let me go home ,this woman had no right to talk to me like that i know what i did was wrong ,but treat me like a human and i am whiye and this small town is alot of gossip and she knew i had copd and i had mt medicine with me ,i have a court date and i;m trying to sell my home and go back to my family whats left of it ,i am not looking for pity god knows ,i don;t need that ,and wgat will happen to me in georgia for the police officer cuffed me and told me well the good news is you have no record no sir i have always lived a clean life tryed to and when i lost my mother and husband real close together ,i also have some uncureable isssues with my health and i am about to worry myself sick about the court date for the whole town knows everybody and i am so ashamed ,is there a way i can see the judge alone or a officer of the court and matbe he can tel me what is going to happen ,i cannot go to jail for i have so many things on me now ,so please advise me how i can do this without the whole town knowing it ,for i will never leave my home again if i have to stand there and tell the court my story ,my dr, said not to worry i am a good person just stressed out and alot of people do things .will a letter to the court from him help for i am not a well person and believe me i will do anything they ask as long as the whole town does not know for i would really go off the deep end then help me sir if you can ,i don;t have alot of money and do i need a lawyer ,please advise me soon ,thank you judge tom
Dear Ms. Langert: First, we must tell you that Askthejudge is a web site for teenagers about the law. So your question is beyond the scope of this site. However, we will tell you that if this is your first offense, when you meet with the court officer, you may expect to be offered diversion which means if you complete work hours, pay a fine, go to a class or counseling, this matter will be over. It may not be made public either, but every city, town etc. is different. Since you’re an adult, it may be public information. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi,this is amie im from maryland,and i got shoplifting at jc penny and im 14 i steal abot $40 doller,this is my first time caught,and i feel so gulity anyway i dont know what to expect in court they send me a letter from court and sed i have a appointment in intake officer,im just wondring do i need a lywer and my parent does not speck english that much nd the letter also sed that the youth and the parent to take screening services whats that?will this will be in my record forever? and will the court send a letter to my school that i got shoplifting?plz i need answer really quick,thank you
Dear Amie: When you go to court and meet with the court officer, he or she will explain the process to you. If this is your first offense, you’ll probably be offered diversion which means if you complete some work hours, pay a fine, complete a class or counseling, the case will be closed. You won’t have a “record” and your school shouldn’t become aware of it. Don’t become a repeat offender and this incident won’t follow you around in your adult life. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello, i was Just curious as to what will happen to me I was caught trying to take this cheap necklace, it was only $9.50 and it’s my first offense, I’m 17 and I just want to know how much trouble I’m in or wants going to happen
Dear Kaelani: Either the store may handle this as a civil matter, meaning you’ll get a letter with notice of a fine or it will go to court and you’ll receive notice in the mail. Either way you’re probably looking at community service hours, a fine, a class or counseling, or possibly probation. Once this is behind you, you can ask the court for a clear record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi,i got shoplifting at walmart abt a month ago
they told me to go to court,im just wondring what
things and what kind of paper should i bring to court?
thank you.
Dear Jhon: If you were not cited in to a court or told when and where to appear, relax until you are notified. Once you become aware of a court date, make sure you appear on time, and the process will be explained to you. The store may have decided just to warn you this time and take no further action. If that’s the case, don’t repeat the incident because it won’t be the same next time it happens. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi im teania,i got shoplifting at jc penny i live in maryland,so i had to pay $81 doller to jc penny bcuz that is twice as the price i steal so after a month i got a latter from court,this is my first time caught and im 15,in da letter they told me to bring some stuff bt i dont know what r thet do u have to bring them?and it sed something about screening service,do i have to take that test,and can u plz expline me what kind of paper do i need when i go2 court?
Dear Teania: Ask your Mom or Dad or any other family member to read the letter you received from the court. You need to take with you whatever the court requires in order to avoid having to return a second time. You may be placed in the court’s diversion program after going through screening. The court officer will explain the process to you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I shoplifted, got caught, and was charged with an infraction because it was my first offense a year ago (2008). Even though it was my first offense, it wasn’t my first time shoplifting, I had shoplifed a couple times before that but got away.
I’ve learned my lesson in a very hard way. I’m a very good and honest person, it was just at the period of time I was addicted to shoplifting. I’ve been feeling bad every day ever since, I’d just sit and stare at those stuffs that I’ve taken and feel pain and regret, every single day.
Besides, I feel scared, would the store look back at their security camera tapes and find out that I stole more than once and would they call the cops to search my house?
I don’t know what I’d do with all these stuffs now. I want to get rid of all of them, they are mostly jewlery, can you help me find a way to give them away?
Dear Tram: The store won’t likely review their tapes looking for you or report anything to the police since a year has passed. To ease your conscience, you might consider sending the items back to the store with a note of apology – you don’t have to sign it or identify yourself. Otherwise, you could donate the items to charity. It’s good that you’ve learned from this experience. All the best.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hey I need some help. I am originally from Texas but my husband is in the navy so I moved to Virginia with him. Well I got caught shoplifting a couple years ago items less that 100$ and was put on probation for 9 mnths, well a few months later i got a felony charge with it bein less that a gram ( x pill ) which i am currently on right now. Just yesterday out of stupidity I was caught shoplifting for 2nd time ( this is in 2 diff states)I tried calling probation officer but since its the holidays they are not there. Also I am in the middle of trying to get early dismissal for my probation, which i dnt think will happen now. Me and my probation officer have a pretty good relationship tho and I been doing so good and been going to college ive just been so stressed out I was just being stupid. What could happen to me?
Dear Alicia: What happens depends on how you decide to proceed with the current charges. Since you’re on probation already, you’re facing additional probation time with a possibility of additional jail time due to your history [as related to us in a second email]. Discuss the situation with your attorney and/or probation officer and decide what’s best for you [i.e. trial, pleading guilty or working out a plea agreement]. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
today i was caught shoplioplifting from wal mart. it was all under $25 and im a minor (17). a guy stopped me at the door and made me go in this room and made me call my mom and come get me (she was already in the store). i live in the state of california. i wanna know what will happen to me… i know i’ll have to pay fines but what about court? and my record?? is it gonna be on it forever?? im really sorry and i dont ever want to do it again. and i just read something about walmart letting go minors if the stuff was under $25 is that true to??
Dear Sarah: Since this is your first offense and you’re a minor, you may not have to go to court. The store may handle it without notifying the police. You’ll likely receive a letter in the mail requesting payment of a civil fine – pay it on time and the case will be closed, although it will stay on record with the store in the event you return and shoplift again. If this is what happens, you don’t have a “juvenile record” for future job or school purposes. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i just got caught shoplifting at local mall in my town. the officers took my prints and i have to go to court next month,and the place is pressing charges also. will this stick with me the rest of my life. will i be able to get a job? plus this is my first offense.
Dear Dii: Since this is your first offense, and we assume you’re under 18, you may be offered diversion when you go to court. A court officer will explain the process to you. It may include work hours, a fine or restitution to the store, a class or counseling program. If you were trespassed from the mall, don’t return until you’re permitted. If you receive diversion, you won’t have a “record” and this one incident shouldn’t affect the rest of your life. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I live in USA. in Dearborn, i am international studtents I got caught shoplifting in amount of 50 $ for first time in my life . i am planing to pay the amount even if i will not eat anything. i got caught by police. i am feeling guilty since then. i will have court but i am scared so much. I am afraid i cannot pay fine to court Am i going to jail? is this will be in my record if i would apply to green card. please tell me what can i do? thanks
Dear Ranosh: Askthejudge.info is a website for teens about juvenile law and teens’ rights; therefore, the information provided by Askthejudge does not apply to you since you are an adult. That being said, we will go ahead and provide some information to help put your mind at ease. Since this is your first offense, there is still a chance that the court and prosecutor will allow your case to proceed through a diversion program. The program would require completion of community service hours, payment of a fine/restitution and possibly the completion of a class or counseling. Jail time is usually not imposed for a first offense; however, if you violate the terms of your program, jail time is more likely. Upon successful completion of the program, the charges would be dismissed and you would have no record, although you should consult with an immigration attorney to find out how it might affect your chances of obtaining a green card. You may also face being placed on probation. If this occurs, you would have a record and could later ask the court to set aside your conviction or expunge your record. Typically the courts do not require that the fine be paid up front. They will work with you and allow you to make payments. We hope you learned from this incident. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Hi Judge,
This is the same Jasmina from an earlier post. I just had another quick question. I am currently filling out my grad application and it is asking whether or not I have been CONVICTED of a crime. While I have gotten my civil fine in the mail, I have not yet received the documents from the court, and I was told that it may take several months (I may already hear back from my school by then). Am I only convicted once I am in court, or am I currently convicted now? Suppose they ran a background check on me right now (and let’s suppose that all my information has been entered into the system), would my school be able to pull up my current charges? I don’t know whether or not I should put yes or no. I plan on getting this pushed off my record, so this makes it kind of hard for me to explain.
Thank you for your time!
Dear Jasmina: If you haven’t been to court or pleaded guilty or not guilty to the charge, you have not been “convicted.” If you’re offered diversion and complete the program successfully, your record will be clear because the charge was “diverted” away from the criminal system. So, read the questions carefully before answering.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi. I was caught today shoplifting with my friend from Walgreens. Combined we took about $90 in our backpacks. They have us on camera coming there multiple times. Now after sitting in a holding cell arrested that turned into a wake up call. I have a clean record and this was my first time caught. I’ve never been in trouble with the law. We’re both 17 but we have different stories.
We were taken to the back of the store and they counted up how much we lifted. They said they will prosecute us, then they called the police. After about 2 hours they let us go to our parents.
He actually was on probation for “weapons possession” (it was a BB gun but it was still classified that way). What can he expect?
We don’t have a court date because it was done today but we were just wondering what to expect.
Oh and to add, this probably won’t have any affect but when arresting they didn’t read us our rights. I am not really worried about the police just the lawsuit that I think is coming.
Thanks! We have learned our lesson.
Dear Rob: First, if only the store was involved and no police, there’s no requirement that you be read your “rights.” The Miranda warnings only apply to those in custody by law enfrocement, not to store owners, teachers, principals, etc. Since this is your first offense, you may be eligible for diversion which means you’ll have to complete some community service hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling and the case will be closed. You won’t have a “juvenile record” if you follow all terms of diversion. Or you may just receive a letter from the store demanding that you pay a fine, then the matter is closed. Your friend may be handled differently since he’s already on probation. The new shoplifting is a violation of probation. He needs to discuss the situation with his probation officer if it comes to his or her attention. Good luck – hopefully you’ve learned something from this incident.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
well, i’ve been thinking these past years so much, well i got caught lifting an they got my info but not my ssn and took me back to their room They filled the paper out and parent came but no police and i paid a civil demand…… thats pretty much it… will my record be in the national theft databse and preventing me from a job if they do a background chek?
Dear Jack: If there were no police involved and you weren’t cited in to court, there is no “record” of this incident in the judicial system. It may stay in the store’s records in the event you return and shoplift again. Then they may choose to prosecute you. This should not be in a national database. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
so if my emploeyers do a background check will my name ever show up?
(by the way, Thanks so much, been thinking about this since the day i did it…i feel so much better having somebody who knows what their doing telling me truthful answers)
Dear Jack: It’s not likely that anything has been entered into a law enforcement database if the police and courts weren’t involved. Relax and have a safe New Years.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Yes!!thank you so much! now i can finally get this off my chest, thanks a lot!
well, sorry to bother you but i was looking at this site http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/problems/shoplifting.html# and it said that
“•Even if people who shoplift aren’t prosecuted, their names can end up on a national database that some companies look at when making hiring decisions”?
Dear Jack: We researched your comment and are unable to locate a “national database” for shoplifters. We wrote to KidsHealth.org for clarification and will post any new information we might receive. A store may keep its own records of people caught shoplifting in their database which may be national [Walmart, Target, Penneys etc.] but we’re unaware of a law enforcement database that is national regarding shoplifters.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Police were called to kohls and I was accused of shopflifting. I was given a ticket and will have to go to court. I would not sign a statement of intentually shoplifting as it was not intentual. I had a necklace that was not concealed it was laying on the top of my other bags, When I went to checkout I did not see it and was stopped at the door. I asked what was going on and was told to follow the store personal. I have to plead not quilty, but am reading that no contest and there should be no court cost. I cannot aford to pay costs but just can’t plea guilty when I forgot about it. How would you proceed? I am an adult.
Dear Gayle: Askthejudge.info is a site about the law for teenagers. We do not provide legal advice to either adults or teens. You need to speak with your lawyer or court officer about this situation and how to proceed. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
im 13 today i was caught shoplifting at claires. it was a complete accident. i was gettint a text from my mom and the item(which was worth4$) was in my hand. when i went to grab the phone out of my purse i accidentally dropped the item in my purse and didnt relize it. when i left the store the manager grabbed me and told me to give her bac her stuff. i didnt know what she was talking about so when she ased me to look in my purse i saw the item and i was freaking out because i have never been in trouble and ive never had any intention to steal. she called security and they too my information and gave me a court date. Im EXTREAMLY scared.this is my first offence. what will happen to me?
Dear Bailey: What you have described is not uncommon. Many people have done the same thing and its understandable. Explain exactly what happened to the court officer that you’ll meet with when you go to court. He or she will explain the process to you and you and your parents can decide how you want to proceed. After you explain what happened, the prosecutor may decide to drop the charge against you. If not, you’ll probably be offered diversion which means after you complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the case will be closed and you won’t have a record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello, Judge
my boyfriend got caught shoplifting and he provided false information(he said he’ll be so embrassed if his family finds out about it so he told lies). He is 25 years old. Police is involved and take a picture of him and gave him a court date. The information he provided is all wrong expect his phone number.He is thinking not to go to court beacuse the information he gave is not him and he is moving to another state. He is scared to go to court because they are going to charge aganist false information to police. Its his 1st time messing with the law.What would you advice? are they going to come after him even if he move out to another state. He have cancelled his phone service as well and moved out already. If he goes to court he will have more charges aganist him and if he doesnt then he is scared to death by getting caught through his phone number..Any advice? He have learned his lesson now.
Thank you so much!
Dear Jessica: First, we must tell you that Askthejudge.info is an educational website for teenagers about the law. We do not provide legal advice to anyone – adult or teen. Since your boyfriend is 25, he needs to face the music now before the situation gets worse. Every state has its own laws and procedures regarding the processing of crimes, including the issuance of warrants that could follow him from state to state. Courts don’t take it lightly when a defendant fails to appear for a hearing. His current offenses are probably misdemeanors and he should consider dealing with them now. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi Judge, My friend Josh recently got caught stealing beer from a store and is worried that he will be put back into Juvie for 3 years. I didn’t think it was possible for them to lock him away for that long when he’s only 15. But he does have a pretty bad record of getting into stuff, and he’s told me he has to go to court but thinks that an appeal is useless seeing as the Judge does not like him. Can he really be put away for that long?
thanks,
Dear Mary: In some states, it is possible to send a teenager to the juvenile department of corrections for years. If your friend’s record is extensive, as you say, and he’s been warned by the court about future activities, he may be facing lockup until he’s 18. It’s up to the sentencing judge who will take into consideration his attitude, behavior, criminal history, community safety and rehabilitation possibilities. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
ok me and my friend got caught shopliftin in jcpennys in florida and i got caught taking $258 wroth of idems and i was arrested and was charged with a misterminer im 18 and this is my 1st offence what will happen to me?
Dear Parker: Since you are 18, you will be charged as an adult. Your case may still be resolved through a diversion program which is a common resolution for first offenses. This program will require you to complete community work hours, pay a fine/restitution and attend a class or counseling. Upon successful completion of the program, the charges would be dismissed. If you plead guilty, you would likely be facing similar consequences in addition to being placed on probation. Once the case is over, you could go back to the court and request that your record be expunged. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Hi. I got caught shoplifting today, and im really scared. It was my first time, and it was at claires. Im 14 years old and i live in CA. AND THE EXACT AMOUNT I got caught stealing was $12.50. The policeman gave me a “ticket” and they would call my house for my court date. It was my first time, im really scared and all i want to know is, what is going to happen?
Dear Melissa: Since this is your first time you’ll probably be given a chance to complete a diversion program. That means if you do some work hours, attend a class or counseling session, the charge may be dropped and you won’t have a record. Otherwise, you may have to see a judge and explain what happened. The consequences may be the same. Just don’t do it again because the penalties increase with each offense. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
deR JUDGE i would like to know if you would by any chance know hour many hours they would give me?
Dear Parker: The number of work hours depends on the need for community service in your area, the judge assigned to the case, your court policies regarding work hours, and your history of offenses. There are many factors in making these decisions. You can ask the court officer that you’ll meet when you go to court – he or she should have a good idea of the number you can expect. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear judge i would like if i was to get a lawyer if the out come will be better or about the same?
Dear Parker: Since hiring a lawyer doesn’t change the facts of the case or the applicable law, in an ideal world it shouldn’t make a difference. This is something you should discuss with your parents before deciding how to proceed. Lawyers are trained to examine the details of a case and protect your rights under current laws and procedures.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
okay, i’ll be waiting until then, thanks
-Jack_
You’re welcome, Jack.
Well I got caught shopliftng(will NEVER do something that STUPID again) and they took me to the little office in the store and called the police, I’m 16 (about to be 17) and what I stole was under $70 The police did not take me in the station and I didn’t ride the car and they did not get my finger prints. What will happen to my record? It’s my first offense (and my last). Will it be clean after I turn 18?
Dear Gabi: Since this is your first offense, you may be offered what is called diversion. That means if you complete some community service, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the case will be closed with no official juvenile record. You may also receive notice of a court date which may have the same result. Whatever happens, be sure to meet all deadlines regarding the terms that you agree to. If you end up with a record, once you’re 18 you’ll be able to apply for a clear one depending on the laws of your state. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hello. im 18 and i live in michigan. Im currently on probation. i got cought shoplifting one out of the two 20 dollar earrings. they took me to the security room and were being all cool with me. they called in a lady cop and she took my name and address and told me to expect a letter in the mail for court date in six weeks. i just wanna know what will happen to me. its my first time getting cought shoplifting. and im on probation.????
Dear Simon: Since you’re already on probation the new shoplifting incident is also a violation of your probation. The consequences depend on your history of offenses, your present work or school status and many other factors that the court will take into consideration. Discuss the possible penalties with your probation officer. He or she should be able to give you an idea of what you’re facing. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear judge,
Its parker again, and i was wondering if i was to be put on propbation would i still be able to ride bulls on the weekends and and what kind of community service normaly be givin to someone for shoplifing and thank you for the information you have givin to me so far it has been a big help.
Dear Parker: What you’re assigned to do for community service all depends on the needs of your community. You may be assigned anything from clean-up duties at a park to serving at a nursing home, animal shelter, or local community center. As far as restrictions on your regular activities, that’s up to the judge and the court officer assigned to you. Have a good 2010 – stay out of trouble.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hey i did a beer run last night at wal mart,meaning i just walked in took two cases and walked out, im sure that they got a video of my face but i put the beer in my friends car and he took me home so they probably got his liscense plate, but before i did it they saw him talking to my other friend who was driving my car and i am worried they got my license plate also. the person who drove me home is on probation. i am 17 years old. should i be expecting police at my house soon?
Dear Scott: It’s possible, but you may have lucked out this time. Depending on how busy your local law enforcement is these days, they may not pursue this shoplifting if the store doesn’t press charges. On the other hand, you may be charged with shoplifting and underage possession of alcohol. Think twice before you do it again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Is it possible to get a shoplifting ban lifted? If so, then how should I go about doing it? If not, please explain why.
Dear Kathy: It is possible by asking the store or mall that issued the ban. Try writing them a letter explaining the situation and why you’d like it lifted. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
today I stole a five dollar item from a grocer store and wasn’t caught. I talked to my parents in the store and am afraid of being identified through them by being seen on camera since they purchased items so the store can find their names. I am 17 and live in Connecticut. Will the store spend the time to try and indentify me and then have me arrested?
Dear Steve: The store has the option of pressing charges against shoplifters or they can seek a civil penalty against you. They may send you a letter in the mail requesting $100 to $200 [usually]. Pay it on time and the matter will be over. Of course that’s if they decide to identify you and track you down, or they can notify the police. Bottom line – pay for your items – the aggravation and consequences aren’t worth it. It’s a matter of right vs. wrong.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hey judge,
thank you so much for reading this.
i’m fourteen years old and i was caught shoplifting from walmart today, i know it’s so stupid i stole lip gloss that was $6 i know it was stupid, it was the stupidest thing i have EVER done. this was the first time (and the last time) i have ever been in any trouble with the law!, they say i am banned from walmart even the parking lot!! my mom was there but she had no clue i was doing that! i feel horrible! what should i expect, do i need a lawyer? P.S. i live in Kansas if that helps at all.
i feel terrible
Dear Melissa: If the police were not called and have not been involved, then it’s possible that the store is willing to resolve the situation with a civil fine only and not press charges. When a store chooses to not involve the police, they will send a “civil demand” letter asking for payment of a fine of up to a few hundred dollars. Pay off the fine and the case may be closed. You don’t need a lawyer at this point unless you’re charged with shoplifting and have to go to court. Think twice before doing this again.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Dear judge.
Me and my friend got caught shop liftin yesterday at sears he waz the look out man.we stole a game that was 30 dollars wen we got out the store we went to the mall part then the undercover workers stopped us and asked us to come to the back they took down all our information and the women seem lyk she had a attitude she said the game we stole waz 30 dollars when the other worker told her it was 30 she said no people who steal don’t get discounts then they told us if we call our parents they will jst let us go but my dad is dead and my mom waz at work and she had a new cell number and I didint know the number and I live with my grandparents when I told em that they didint believe me and called the police the store workers made us sighn a paper saying we did steal from sears and another 1 that we waz banned from the mall for 5 years the police took down our information and told us we would get a call and a letter in the mail sayin we had to go to teen court and had my granddad sighn us over to leave (bt I waz nervous and gave them the wrong address number) what will happen when I go to court
Dear Nick: Once you know the court date, make sure you appear. You may be offered diversion which means you may be required to complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling for dismissal of the charge. If you miss court, a warrant may be issued for your arrest. Don’t return to the mall or trespass charges could be filed against you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
thanks. How can I pay for the item without getting in trouble?
Dear Steve: You could consider sending the money to the store with a note – it’s your decision whether to sign it or not. Glad you’re thinking about this.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hey judge it’s Melissa again well when
you replied you called me Tiffany lol but the cops
were called to the store they took my ssn and height and weight
but no pictures.. no Finger prints or anything so I’m really not sure
what to expect but I have to set up some screening
appt. But I don’t even know what that is?
Dear Melissa: Sorry about the name error – if you were given a number to call, that may be to arrange some form of diversion [community service] in order to avoid court and a juvenile record. So make the call and follow the instructions you’re given to complete the process and close out this incident. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi, I’m 16 in california. I stole a shirt from ROSS that was only about 12 dollars and I noticed the security man point at me. I walked around the store and I wasn’t sure what to do because I had put the shirt on and had my normal shirt in my bag so I went to the dressing room again and switched and gave it back to the lady. I then walked out of the store. No one talked to me or called me back in but I know for sure they saw me. I didn’t leave the store with the merchandise. I recently recived some phone voice mails asking to talk to my parents and I’m not sure what’s happening. The messages don’t leave a call back number or any information, it simply asks for my parents using my name. Could the store possibly be contacting me? If so, what will happen?
Dear Stacy: It is possible that the store is attempting to contact your parents, but unlikely since no one ever spoke with you or obtained your contact information. When a store catches a shoplifter, typically the store will decide to contact the police and press charges and/or send a “civil demand” letter asking you to pay a civil fine of up to a few hundred dollars. If the police were involved, you would receive a notice in the mail notifying you of your first court date. If this occurs and it is your first offense, it is likely that you would be offered a diversion program which means that any charges would be dismissed upon successful completion of community service hours, payment of a fine/restitution and completion of a class or counseling. You may be lucky this time and we hope you learned a valuable lesson from this incident.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Hi, I am 21 and live in TN.
I got caught shoplifting yesterday, it was the first time I’ve ever done anything like this and I have no reason, excuse or explaination. I just know that it was wrong and have a learned a very serious and severe lesson. Which at my age, you’d think I know better, and I did. As soon, as I did it….I was remorseful. Anyhow, the Loss Prevention approached me as I was exiting the store, asked me to follow him, which I did. I returned the merchandise and the police were called. I gave all my information. The officer was a very kind man and he gave me a ticket basically all it said was “Shoplifting 3 items with a cost of $100″ And he told me my court date was Feb 1st, in General Sessions and not Criminal Court. So, I’m wondering what I should expect at court. It was my FIRST offense, it was $100 cost, not a penny more. I was not arrested. And, the officer said I would likely get fined and 6 months probation and possibly 5 days in jail. I expected these things but not the jail time, that is my concern. Any advice or knowledge of this situation?
Thank you
Dear K: The officer may have been advising you of the maximum sentences under the circumstances. You may be eligible for a diversion program that means upon completion of work hours, payment of a fine and/or attendance at a class or counseling session, the matter will be closed. You could contact your local public defender’s office and ask for advice. Every state has its own laws and criminal code. The laws in Tennessee may authorize a period in jail for first-time shoplifters, but it would be unusual in a case involving a low dollar amount. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
HI, IAM 18 YEARS OLD WITH STRCT PARENTS I WAS COUGH SHOPLIFTING WITH ITEMS UP TO 150 DOLLAR IN THE STATE OF P.A IN KOHLS BUT THE POLICE OFFICER WAS NICE ENOUGH TO NOT ARREST ME BUT HE GIVED ME A CITATION AND TO REPORT TO A JUDGE WITHIN 10 DAYS, NOW IAM VERRY SCARED AND I WANTED TO KNOW IF IT WOULD GO ON MY RECORD OR IF THEY WILL MAIL ANYTHING TO MY HOUSE ..PLEASE HELP ANSWER THAT QUESTION FOR ME MY BIGGEST FEAR IS MY PARENTS FINDING OUT THROUGH THE MAIL N P.S I DO NOT EVEN HAVE A MAIL KEY
Dear S.N.: Since you’re an adult you can appear in court on your own. If this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion which means if you complete some community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or sounseling, the matter will be closed and there may not be a record of this incident. Don’t miss the court date or a notice may be sent to your home about the next hearing date. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was caught shoplifting at a Whole Foods grocery store. I attempted to steal expensive facial moisturizing cream that amounted to $80 because I didn’t have enough money. I proceeded to pay for the rest of my groceries and left to go back to my car until the loss prevention manager took me inside. I was very cooperative and the police were called in. I have never been convicted before and have no warrants. I was not taken to jail for shoplifting at Whole Foods that day but I have a court appearance in two weeks. Was I technically arrested even though I didn’t wear handcuffs? Does this go onto my permanent record or onto a shoplifters database? I currently work in a major retail/clothing store and am afraid that I will lose my job if they find out through a database. Will my managers find out what happened even though I stole from a grocery store? If I move out of America, will this event decrease my chances of getting a job in Europe? Also, since this is my first misdemeanor and first appearance in court, do I have to bring a lawyer? I am 20 years old and truly feel that I am not a true criminal and do not know how to proceed. Thank you for your help.
Dear Anon: First, if the police only took a report and cited you into court, you were not arrested. Once you appear in court, the process will be explained to you. Since you’re only 20 and this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion which means once you complete community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. Depending on the laws in California, where you stated you’re from in a follow-up message, there may not be an official record of this. As far as we know, there is no national governmental database for shoplifters. This shouldn’t affect your future employment opportunities. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
About 8 months ago I was caught shoplifting and I plead guilty. I payed the store a fine we t to court payed fines and community service. I’m looking for a new job since it was a shoplifting misdemeanor does that mean on job applications I have to say yes to being convicted of a felon?
Dear Jessica: You raise a good question about applications. The exact language on the form is very important. If the question is whether you were “convicted” of a felony, based on what you’ve told us, the answer is no. The shoplifting was handled as a misdemeanor. If you were a minor [under 18] you weren’t “convicted” – you were “adjudicated” delinquent. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
HI JUDGE THANKS FOR THE ADVICE I CALLED THE COURT TODAY TO ASK WHEN CAN I COME AND THE TOLD ME ANYTIME BEFORE THE 29TH AND SHE SAID I WOULD BE DOING A FINGER PRINT TEST THAT I WOULD HAVE TO TAKE TO THE POLICE AND NOW IAM SCARED BECAUSE ME AND MY FAMILY SUPPOSE TO BE APPLYING FOR OUR AMERICAN CITIZEN THIS YEAR WOULD THIS EFFECT THAT TO THE POINT OF MY PARENTS FINDING OUT??? AND YEA YOU WAS RIGHT THEY SAID THEY WONT SEND ANYTING TO ME
Dear S.N.: If you complete the diversion program, assuming it’s available to you, there won’t be a record of the incident. Whether it affects your and your parents’ citizenship application depends on the naturalization process and its requirements. If there is no official record of this incident, it won’t likely come to the attention of immigration officials. Answer all questions on the application truthfully. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi. I was just caught stealing something but the guy walkie talkied my license plate number and then told me to drop what i stole. He then said if I were to get into my car and leave without returning the goods then they would call the police. I basically returned what I had taken (regretfully), and he told me “Don’t come back to my store” and walked off. Is this something I can put behind me now, or should I expect to be contacted? No police were involved at the scene, no information was collected or pictures were taken, no forms or papers were filled. Just that my license plate was read through a walkie talkie just in case I decided to flee the scene without returning the stolen item. Thank you for your help!
Dear B: It sounds like you lucked out this time. Without identifying information you’re not likely to hear anything further about this. A license plate number doesn’t necessarily connect you to the owner of the car unless it’s the same person. Since you’ve been told not to return to the store, be sure to stay away. Otherwise the store owner can press trespass charges against you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I am 16 and i got got shoplifting from a store with 79$ worth of clothing. I was arrested and told that I would receive papers in the mail but it has already been two weeks. How long does it take for the papers to come in? How will i know if they dropped charges?
Dear Jaylene: It is not unusual for a month or so to go by before you hear from the court or the store. If you receive notice from the court to appear, be sure to show up on time. Otherwise, if no shoplifting charge is filed, the store may seek payment of a fine. Pay it on time and the matter will be closed. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
tHANK YOU SO MUCH YOU’VE BEEN VERY HELPFUL AND MY LAST QUESTION IS THAT DO YOU KNOW IF KHOLS IS GOING TO FINED ME OR THE STATE? IF SO HOW MUCH YOU THINK IT MIGHT BE IF THE ITEM TAKEN TOTAL CAME UP TO 149.99 DOLLARS?
Dear S.N.: The fine imposed by the court is set by statute and it could be several hundred dollars, with the possibility of additional surcharges. A store’s civil demand is usually several hundred dollars as well. You can call the store’s loss prevention officer and ask.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
About how much should I be expecting to have to pay for the charges/fines ?
Dear Jaylene: We can’t say because every jurisdiction sets its own figures and oftentimes there are surcharges added on. It also depends on the amount of the items taken.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was caught shoplifting almost $400 worth of merchandise, and i am to go to a court officer tomorrow. What’s going to happen? Will i recieve bigger conseqences because i stole more expensive merchandise?
Thanks
Dear Justin: The court officer will explain the process and your options. You may be offered diversion depending on your age and history with the court. Yes, consequences may increase depending on the amount of the theft. Each state differs in classifying crimes and appropriate penalties. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
OKAY`TODAY I WENT AND GOT MY FINGERPRINT TOKEN FOR BACKGROUND CHECK AND SHE SAID WITHIN 3 TO 4 WEEKS I WILL GET A SUMMON IN THE MAIL , AND SHE SAID THEN I COULD SEND IN THE BOTTOM PART OF MY CITATION AND TO CHECK GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY WHICH ONE YOU THINK I SHOULD PLEAD??
Dear S.N.: That is entirely up to you. Askthejudge.info does not provide legal advice to anyone, adult or teenager. Talk with your parents or other person you trust for advice. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i am 16 and my brother is 18 we were both caught shopliffting and this is the first time it happens but idk what happens next? i live in florida
Dear Jose: There are two possibilities. You may have to appear in court if formal charges are filed. Or the store may choose to handle this by sending you a demand letter requiring payment of a fine to the store. If you end up in court, you may be able to complete a diversion program. That would include work hours, a fine, a class or counseling in return for closing the case and no official record. Your brother’s case may be handled slightly differently since he’s an adult. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello! I was arreseted for taking groceries from a store a friend posted my bond and i go to court tomorrow what will i get from this i live in Ohio. Thanks
Dear Lori: Assuming you’re a young adult [18-21] since you said bond was posted for your release, the process will be explained to you when you appear in court. If this is your first offense, you may be offered a diversion program which includes community work hours, a class or counseling, a fine and restitution to the store. You could also be placed on probation. Once all terms are completed you can ask the court to expunge your record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
sorry i didnt get a letter for a restitution it was for a Arraignment
hey its parker again i got a letter in the mail today and its for a Arraignment date. I dont know what to do. will i have to pay a bail? what will happen at the Arraignment and what will happen if i plea no contest?
im going for what i think is a 1st degree misdemeanour this is my first offence.
Dear Parker: An arraignment is your first hearing on the shoplifting charge. The charge will be read to you and you’ll be asked how you want to plead, guilty, not guilty, or no contest [which is treated the same as a guilty plea]. You’ll have a chance to speak with a court officer or public defender before you say anything. He or she will explain the process to you, or the judge will. If you’re confused or don’t understand something, say so. You need to understand exactly what you’re doing and the consequences before acting. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
okay, i live in texas. i got caught stealing a necklace at a little jewlry store in a mall. the necklace was $11.50. what will be my punishment? and what are they going to ask me in the court room?
Dear Ashley: If you’re a minor and this is your first offense, you can expect to participate in a diversion program. This means if you complete some community service hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. You may also choose to plead not guilty and proceed to trial on the charge. Once you go to court, you’ll have a chance to speak with a court officer or probation officer who will explain the process to you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hey. I was caughy shoplifting at a mall a few days ago. I had $242 worth of stuff. I’m banned from the mall for a period of time and banned from all Dillards stores. They took my information and called the police and since I am 18 I was taken to the police station and they got my picture and prints. I have a court date in a few days but I’m really worried about school and getting a job in the future. I’m a freshman in college and am hoping to follow my dreams in becoming a psychologist. I was wondering how it would affect my school, scholoarships and grants, and if it will stay on my record forever and it would hinder me in getting a job. Please help!!
Dear Megan: If this is your first offense, although you’re 18, you may be offered a diversion program. That means if you complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter may be closed without you getting a record. Discuss this possibility with the court officer you’ll meet with at your hearing. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hey im 17, live in texas. me and a friend went to sears last saturday and were caught attempting to shoplift $$800 worth of gold jewelry by LP. it was my idea mostly to try and steal it so i took the blame for most of the items. we were arrested and taken to jail, got finger printed- the works. later i(not my friend cause she got bailed early) was sent to county jail where i spent the rest of the night. later that day(sunday i was bailed and met up with my friend. till today she has been trying to convince me to take all the blame for the crime we BOTH committed, but i told her no because there is proof and witnesses that she is guilty plus she admitted to the officer that arrested us she stole items with me. while in jail someone told me stealing gold jewelry is classified under a felony no matter the value of it. do you think i will still be eligible for an alternative jail sentence, like probation? this is my first offense. thanks for your help:)
Dear Kat: If, as you say, an alternative sentence means a diversion program, yes it’s possible if your county has such a program for minors. Shoplifting may be a felony depending on the value of the items taken. It’s up to the court and district attorney whether you’re eligible for leniency on a first offense. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hello – about four months ago i switched price tags at a tj maxx but did not get caught after buying the item (it was a $5 difference and i did it in the fitting rooms and the clothing area was generally a huge mess). i returned the item because i felt very guilty and bought additional merchandise that i didn’t really need because i felt bad about it. i’ve used my credit card to pay there before so i’m still worried that they might pursue it after all this time? do you think they will? thank you very much for all of your help
Dear Amy: It’s possible, but after all this time, it’s not likely you’ll hear anything from the police or the store. If you do hear something, explain what you did to resolve the incident and express your apparent remorse. You did the right thing.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
my friend took some stuff but she took it out of the package and left the trash on the floor she wasent neer any camras so what would happen to her can they pin it on her if she wasent caught
Dear Allison: Your friend could have been caught on a camera you didn’t see. If so, she may receive a letter in the mail from the store requesting payment of a civil fine. Also, if the store knows her name or a way to identify her, they may report the incident to the police, in which case she may be charged with shoplifting.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
What is a citation? I got one in the mail regarding my shoplifting a month ago from the Juvenile Probation Department. What does this mean?
Dear Melissa: The citation is an order that you appear at the date and place stated. You will meet with a court [probation] officer who will explain the process to you. If this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion. That means if you complete some community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. Don’t miss your court date. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My roommate works at a store and took costomer gift cards while working there as a cashier. H care took about 4 giftcards that in total added to about $90. He did it a few months go and stopped because he knew it was wrong and now two months later he got caught. What will happen to him. He’s 19 and this is his first offense I guess you can call it. They suspended him from work and said that they’d fax it to the next highest people. He called Human resources and they said it wouldn’t go to court and he wouldn’t go to jail. So what will happen to him? Should he just quit? He already paid his manager the $90. Will it go on his record?
Dear Kristopher: If the police or courts aren’t involved, he won’t have an official criminal record. The store will likely keep a record of the event, especially if he continues his employment with them and he steals from them again. The store may require that he pay them a fine or some other consequence. It’s up to him and his boss whether to continue working for the store. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My 15 year old son (who overheard some friends say how easy shoplifting was) got caught for the 1st time at Marshall’s in Miami, Fla. The store is in a mall. I was called to the store’s loss prevention office. The LP officer told me they would not call police nor mall security. I asked about court, civil demand, etc. He stated he was only filling out an Incident form, which included my son’s info and my license info for my son’s release to me. He showed me a different form that he could have filled out, which involved paying a civil fine, but because my son was extremely cooperative, he would not take it any further, no letters, no civil fine/demand, etc. My son is not allowed to enter any Marshall stores for 1 year. He IS allowed to be in the mall though. But the LP officer stated there is a retail database for all retail stores & my son’s info would be on file for 7 years, so if he applies for a job or on his college application, he would have to answer YES to Shoplifting. According to one of your previous answers, there is no such database. From the research on Florida law, since my son was not convicted, will not have to go to court or pay a fine, etc. . .he would NOT have to admit to shoplifting on any applications, as there is no record. I do believe the 7 year thing was a scare tactic on the LP officer’s part. My son is extremely worried as he will be applying for a part time job at Publix in January of 2011, and is studying hard to get into college. I don’t want him to be nervous nor am I angry with him, I just want to help him deal with this situation in the proper manner. Any input on your part is very helpful. Thank you.
Dear CJM: There is no official governmental database for juvenile shoplifters. Private companies exist that keep track of employee theft cases, embezzlement, etc. and some retail stores pay these companies for information before hiring an employee. But these don’t apply to minors. Your son needs to read the questions on every application [college, employment, military etc.] very closely and answer truthfully. In what you have described, he hasn’t been convicted of a crime. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Im 19 me and my friend were at walmart and I had put makeup in the shopping cart and she covered it up and then she stole over 500 dollars worth of stuff.I knew she was stealing it but I didnt steal it we both went to jail and got bailed out but its a felony charge, what will happen when I go to court. I dont have a record and i didnt walk out the store with anything I walked out a different door with nothing on me. What will happen when i go to superior court
Dear Christina: Since it’s your first offense, you may be offered a diversion program. That means if you complete some community service hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the case may be closed. You’ll have a chance when you go to court to speak with a court [probation] officer who will explain the process. You may also plead not guilty and go to trial – it’s your decision. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank you very much for your response. Just as an added note, the LP officer said the paperwork went in a file and it was not necessary to give me a copy as they were not going to proceed further. When the time comes for applications, he will be truthful for what has happened. Thank you your Honor, you were most helpful!
Hi Judge,
You may or may not recall, I wrote here about a month ago. So far, I have paid my civil fines, but am still waiting on the court documents. I plan on applying for a job soon, and my question is, IF I don’t receive the court documents by the time I get an interview, will my employers be able to pull this incident up while doing a background check? If so, I would rather not apply until I am completely sure that it has been cleared off my record.
I guess my overall question is, if it does get on my record, when, exactly, will my employers be able to pull this information up in a background check? Will they be able to right now, even though I haven’t gotten the court documents? Or would it be there after I’ve gone to court, and am in the process of getting it cleared off? I just need a time frame so that I know when I can apply without this hindering it.
Thank you.
Dear Jasmina: Yes, we remember you. You may or may not have a record to worry about. If you don’t go to court on this, there’s no official record. Even if you go, but complete a diversion program, there’s still no official record – it’s been diverted by your completion of the terms. You’ll have to wait and see. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i was at walmart with my friend and i stole some make up…. i didnt get caught but she went back to walmart that night and there was cops there and im really scared… what should i do? if i return it or pay for it can i still get into trouble?
Dear Darianne: Since you’re asking, we think you know what the right thing to do is, right? You said in a follow-up message that you’re 14, so if this is your first offense, and you returned to the store, returned the goods and apologized, this could be the end of it. There are no guarantees here, but doing what’s right and ethical has its own rewards. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
So im 18 and got caught stealing at kmart, no cops were called, the guy said i would get stuff in the mail. All he did was get my ss #, my name, and address, asked a few basic questions and thats it. My total for items stole was $17. Will i go to jail? What will all happen? How long does the stuff in the mail take? Please help.
Dear Alexis: Since you’re an adult, the store could refer this to the police who could charge you with shoplifting. On the other hand, the store may send you a letter requiring that you pay a fine [civil demand] and the case is then closed upon payment. They’ll keep the information taken at the time for their own records. It could take up to a month before you hear from them. The store cannot send you to jail – only if you’re charged and convicted of a crime does jail become a possibility. Don’t steal again.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Im 33 years old.I got caught at Kohls in Virginia b4 2 months. It was a Nike shoes sale for $49 but ticket price was around $65. Security took down my information. No cops were called and he said nothing about being banned from Kohls. He just said that I will be getting a fine in the mail from Kohls Headquaters, Wisconsin . Now is this all that’s going to happen? And when he took down my address I completely blanked and forgot to tell him that I wont be at that address for much longer, is there any number or email I could call to change my address, or will they even do it? Please help me, I’m freaking out and I know I did stupid mistake also my all nights are going sleeples .Also I did my change my address at post office.Now it been 8 weeks I havn’t received any letters from them please help me.How do I contact them? HOW SOON I WILL GET A LETTER FROM THEM?What if I don’t received any letter from them?What they do?please help me.
Dear Tennu: Askthejudge.info is a website for teenagers about the law. We don’t provide legal advice to anyone whether a teen or an adult. You should hear from the store soon if you had your mail forwarded. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hey, I have a question
What will i get, me and a friend got caught shoplifting from Claire’s, and we are both only 12. What will be the punishment?
Dear Lily: If this is your first time shoplifting, you may hear from the store asking you to pay a fine by a certain date. Or the store may refer the incident to the police. You may be eligible for a diversion program which means you’d have to do some community service hours, pay a fine, attend class or counseling in return for no formal charges in court. Think twice before doing this again. The consequences increase as you get older and continue to break the law.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi! I was caught shoplifitng at a local Walgreens 6 months ago.Im 20 and live in NYC. I paid a fine straight away, I was not arrested, they just took down my ID and said they use it incase I come back in to check my ID. Will anything else happen to me? Court? anything? Im going to school to become a teacher and Im scared. Im just trying to right my wrongs and so the right thing now. What will happen to me?
Dear Stephanie: If it’s been six months and you haven’t heard anything from the store, police or a court, then you’re most likely in the clear. The store will keep the information on file about the incident in the event you return and shoplift again. All the best with your teaching career – you have some real life experiences now to share with your students.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
if you do shoplifting and the police don’t get called . how much time do the store have to press charges against the person.
Dear Wana_b: Every state has its own laws regarding the time to file charges against someone. It’s called a statute of limitations. It may be a year for a misdemeanor offense, and longer for felonies. Google your state’s name, shoplifting and statute of limitations and you’ll be able to read the laws that apply to you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
well me and my friend both walked into jc penny and she stole some make-up that i had know idea about and then we went to go try on some clothes and we went into the same fitting room and she put some clothes in her bag and i was whispering her not too but i didnt want to her to get in trouble so i didnt say anything to her then she put the dress that i tryed on in my bag i was scared and told her not to but she convinced me and then we got caught and i didnt go to juvie becaude the dress was under 40 but i would like to know what is going to happen when i go to court im 15 and i have never done anything bad(never been suspended i haven’t even had detention in my life) also i live in houston texas and my friend is 17 so are they going to treat her like an adult
Dear Estefany: Since this is your first offense, you may be offered a diversion program which means if you complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. Or you could be placed on probation with similar terms. Whether your friend is treated as an adult for this incident depends on her history and how the police/prosecutor choose to handle her case. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Judge, thank you so much for your advice. I’ve been so worried about the incident for months and months. Its just me or does this type of stuff seem so up in the air, so to speak? For example, I had no idea what would happen to me legally…I was just worried one day I’d get fired from my current job, or the police would show up at my house out of no where. Or i’ll randomly get something in the mail, like a court order? Is this something rational I should worry about? Im probably just being silly, but I really worry about this stuff.
Dear Stephanie: As you know, anything is possible. But most likely this incident is history if it’s been quiet for six months. All the best.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank you! Yes anything is possible..but for how long can “anything” be possible? (i apologize for all the questions by the way)
Dear Stephanie: Actually, that’s a good question. Most criminal laws have what is called a ’statute of limitations” which means there’s only so much time after the incident where charges can be filed against a person. Misdemeanors are usually one year, with longer periods for felonies. Then there are crimes, such as murder and treason, where there is no statute of limitations. There’s no limit on the questions you can ask us – no apology needed.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thanks again, haha. So what is considered a misdemeanor? I’m sorry im not fmailiar with a lot of law terms.
Dear Stephanie: On our home page, enter “misdemeanor” in the Search window [upper right corner] and scroll down to the 12th question. Have fun. -ATJ.info
Hello, if I got caught stealing in California, and they decided to take me to court, is a department store going to be able to look through previous footage and charge me if I was caught stealing then, too? I’m a female minor.
Dear Stephanie: If the store finds further evidence of additional crimes, they could turn it over to the police to investigate. Additional charges could be filed depending on the circumstances and the applicable laws. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
So it would take 2 years for this to be officially clear in the state of new york? What would they bring me to court for exactly? Like i said I paid the fines and i received a release says i am “hereby released from any statutory civil claims…”
Dear Stephanie: It sounds like you’ve settled the matter with the store. But criminal charges could always be filed during the statute of limitations period. It’s not likely since the store has apparently chosen not to involve the police. So you can relax.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hello, i have friends that have been caught for shoplifting(they only took 1 item worth about $.50 at diffent times). Well they were charged with a misdemeanor, fine, court, community service, etc… Well anyways someone told me that if you get caught stealling something below $.99 you can’t be arrested. Is this true? They are 16 and live in Minnesota(couldnt find anything on Google). Also they were banned from the store ror life, pretty harsh for $.50
Thank you
Dear Chase: Every state has its own laws and rules regarding shoplifting and how this crime is handled. By Googling “Minnesota shoplifting laws” you should be able to obtain specific information. It’s not uncommon to be trespassed or banned from a store or mall for a period of time [one year is common]. All the best.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello! I was at a local grocery store the other day and bought items. I got in my car and left. My mother received a call from the local police department stating I bagged my own groceries and left (the car is in my mom’s name). I did pay for the groceries, no longer have a receipt and no one stopped me at the store. The police officer says they have video of me taking $150 worth of stuff. What should I do? Do I call the police back?
Dear Melissa: Askthejudge.info does not provide legal advice. You might consider returning to the store and explain the situation. Find the receipt and take it with you – that should resolve the matter. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was recently caught at the mall (MACYS) stealing merchandise worth $135. they said i have to go to court and i’m really scared. what’s going to happen and what are the consequences for my stupid, immature actions.
-janine, 14 years old, miami florida
Dear Janine: If this is your first offense, it’s possible that you will be offered a diversion program. This means that once you successfully complete community service hours, pay a fine/restitution and complete a class or counseling, the matter will be closed and the charges dismissed. If diversion is not an option for you, it is likely that you will face the same consequences as above in addition to being placed on probation. Remember that your penalties will increase for any new offenses committed, so we hope you learned from this incident. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
Thank you for your response and so quickly! I do not have my receipt and I have been back to the store. They know me and know I didn’t do it but they said my mom’s car was part of a theft??? And, the police are saying they will tow the car for evidence. This is all very odd. My mom was out of town so unless our car was stolen and we did not know it, we don’t know how to resolve this. The police said they are “just investigating” a theft and the person left in our car. But, the store knows it wasn’t me. Not sure what to do now???
Dear Melissa: Although you have not been charged with an offense at this point since you have not been cited by the police and have not received a notice in the mail to appear in court, you could consult with a local attorney about the matter who could provide you legal advice and help you decide what to do. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
I got a question, me and my friend go to Sear and my friend jack some stuff and he put it in my backpack. And he ask me to carry it for him, it was part of my fault that I carry the bag for him. But I didn’t take anything, and later we both got handcuff by the security staff and they will send a letter home to notify when I have to serve court. They also said that if I don’t show up for court I have to serve Juvenile Detention. So my question is that if I show up for court, do I have to serve Juvenile Detention or not?
Dear Viet: If this is the first time you have been charged with shoplifting, it is very unlikely that you will have to go to juvenile detention. Often the courts and prosecutors will offer some sort of diversion program for first time offenders. This means that if you successfully complete community service hours, pay the fine/restitution and attend a class or counseling, the case will be closed and the charges dismissed. You also may be facing a probationary period. You will have an opportunity to speak with a court officer or probation officer during your first court appearance who can provide more information about what you can expect. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
I was caught shoplifting at TJ Maxx about 6 months ago. It was only 1 item worth $9.99. I was sure they were going to send me a civil demand notice or something but it’s been so long now and I’ve heard nothing from them.
I do remember them saying that if I were to go back to the store they were call the police, but my mom is asking me to go with her tomorrow. She doesn’t know about the incident and I do not feel like telling her. Do these people have my picture on file, do you think they will recognize me, and can I get in trouble just by being in the store?
Dear Jess: If the store told you not to return, then don’t. Once they’ve “trespassed” you, then they may decide to press charges against you if you return. Tell your Mom what happened, face the music and move on. Honesty is always the best way to go. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
im 18 years old and its my first offense, took me to a little room got my information, cops came and said i have a court date which is not long from now. My question(s) are
- Is a defense attorney worth it ? Well obviously it is but its just a minor crime, which is serious in a way
- i stole 48 dollar pants at Macys (CA), i know pretty stupid, couldnt this be reduced to a non-criminal infraction?
- Whats the odds of me be put into jail? im a college student =/
- The judge isnt going to question me of who i stole with? Because i was with friends that stole as well
-Is there anyway i can just plead guilty or no contest and get this over with? Like am i eligible for a diversion?
Dear Manny: Askthejudge.info does not provide legal advice and cannot tell you whether or not you should hire an attorney or how to plead in court. That is something you will have to decide on your own. Whether you will be given the opportunity to participate in a diversion program will depend on the prosecutor handling your case, the court and whether such a program exists in your county. However, for a first offense, diversion is often an option. This means that you would have to complete community service hours, pay a fine/restitution and attend a class or counseling and the case would be closed and the charges dismissed. Jail time is very unlikely for a first offense. If diversion is not an option and you end up with a record, you can always go back to the court and request your record be expunged or destroyed after successfully completing your sentence. The judge does not usually ask about the facts of the case except when and if you plead guilty at which time the judge hears some facts in order to accept the plea agreement. When you appear for your first court date, more will be explained to you at that time and you will have a better idea of what to expect. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
i am 17 soon to be 18 this month i jus got caught a few days ago shoplifting with friends now what is gonna happen to me? this is my first time and i hav to go to court on march and i also got fingerprinted and they took photos….pls help me
Dear Sam: Since this is your first time, you may be offered diversion which means if you complete some community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the case will be closed. Or you could end up in court with similar consequences. The court officer you meet when you go will explain the process to you. You could also plead not guilty and go to trial – that’s your decision. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I got caught shoplifting today, i took a bag of chips, and as soon as i got outa the store with my friend, the guy yells and tells me to stop, so i stopped. and he ran to me, and i thought he wanted the chips back , so i handed the chips, but instead of grabing the chips he grabbed my collar, and pulled me into the store, i was thrown in the store, and i hit the door while he threw me in there, i wasnt injured but it stinged for a bit, also he told me to empty all my things, and i did, and my backpack also, but there was nothign in there, so then he decideds to take my backpack. and says that i have to call a parent to get it back.
in there is useless things, but theres my name, and stuff, so do you think he’d go to my school and report me?
Dear Jay: It’s not likely that he would notify your school. You may receive a letter at home requesting a civil fine that you should pay as soon as possible. Tell your parents what happened and then you can return to the store for your backpack. Hopefully, you’ve learned from this experience. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i’m 21 years old & i got caught shoplifting makeup. what will happen to me in court since i am an adult. & is will this stay on my record since i’m a first time offender?
Dear Rose: Since you’re a first time offender, you may be offered a diversion program where you’ll be required to complete some community service, pay a fine, complete a class or counseling. Once you’ve complied with the terms, the case will be closed. If you end up in court, the same consequences are likely. After a period of time, depending on your state’s laws, you can ask the court to expunge your record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
im 15, about to be 16, and i steal from walmart sometimes, and i have never gotten caught. im paranoid now for some reason that my parents will get a call and they will find out that i shoplifted. i tried not to let the cameras see me, but i dont know if i was hidden all of the time. is it possible for them to catch me still?
pleaseee help me!!!
Dear Jessie: It’s always possible to get caught doing something wrong, whether the cameras are working or not. Since you admit that you continue to steal from the store, with little remorse, it sounds like it’s time to face the music, from both the authorities and your parents. Your luck will run out soon – maybe you should consider working and buying the things you like, rather than stealing them. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
thanks so much for the last response, do you think that if i stop stealing things, then i can just put it behind me and no one will find out?
Dear Jessie: Yes, you can put it behind you, but there is no guaranty that no one will find out. It’s advisable and the right thing to do to stop – you’ll feel better about yourself in the long run. All the best.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
my friend was arrested a while ago for stealing a bottle of vodka from a grocery store. he was arrested and went to court and everything. he was also 14 at the time. how hard will this make it for him to get into a good college?
Dear K: Assuming your friend stays out of trouble, with no new offenses, it shouldn’t have any effect on future job or college pursuits. He should check with the court or his probation officer about having his record expunged. He may have to wait until he’s 18 depending on your local laws.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Well basically i got caught shoplifting 48 dollars worth of pants at Macys 2 wks ago, i was taken to a little room and they got all my information and the police came and got my fingerprints and my headshots and interrogated me and (after reading my rights) my two other friends that got caught stealing with me, well basically my friend told the cop that we intended to steal, my other friend kept her mouth shut and when it was my turn i told him that we were there just doing our own thing and that stealing was just a compulsive thing and it wasnt planned out.
He basically said that my friend and i have two different stories and now im scared to plea not guilty because he might use this against me, so my main question is, does the court or what not can change my 490.5 to a 459? or no? And what are the odds of having this charge be lessened to an infraction or a 415 (disturbing the peace) or even a diversion can be eligible? And when i plea not guilty which i think i might do, i can get a PD and we can resolve the matter in one day? Or do i have to go to another court date?
im a first time offender
im 18 yrs old, one is 19 and 18 (i know we’re dumb, we’re all college students that are broke)
Dear Manuel: Since, as you said, this is your first offense, even though you’re an adult, you may be eligible for a diversion program. Once you go to court, you’ll meet with a court officer who will explain the process to you. Then you decide how you want to proceed. A Public Defender may be appointed to represent you depending on what’s available in your jurisdiction. Discuss your options with him or her before you decide. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear Judge,
I have a friend who was having shoplifting issues in the state of Texas, he stole something from a store worth about $90, then he was an idiot and stole something from the same store about a week later worth $150, the second time he got caught, and got put into a first offense program or something like that to get it off his record (Juvenile, he’s 17). Does he have any risk of being charged for the $90 item that he stole a week before he got caught with the $150 item? Like security tapes or something? He’s my best friend and I’ve never seen him this distraught.
Dear Marco: If he was caught on tape during the first incident, there’s always a chance the store may review their tapes and file charges. It’s their decision. They may choose not to since he’s already in court and completing the diversion program. Hopefully, he’s learned from this experience. All the best.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Recently,
My friends and I went to Walmart. I stole items that were worth less than 20$ and wasn’t caught. I left before my friends and went to the car and waited for my friends to come out.
In about 5 minutes most of my friends came out, but not all of them.
So about an hour or so later, I found out three of my friends got caught shoplifting, and each individual person had less than 20$ of stolen items in them. What will probably happen to them? Two of them are 16, and one is 17, and she was arrested.
Also, what will happen to me?
I left the store without being stopped or anything,
but my friends told me that the Walmart guy said they had me on camera stealing something. I had my Letter Men’s jacket on, so they do have my name. I’m 15 and live in Michigan. Can they do anything?
I’ve learned my lesson about stealing now, and I’m definitely not going to steal anymore, because I’m extremely worried.
Dear Gavin: Regarding your friends, if this is their first offense, they may be offered a diversion program. That means if they complete some community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. If the store studies the tape, identifies you and wants to prosecute, that is their decision. You will be notified by letter to either pay the store a fine, or appear in court. As a letterman at school you have a responsibility as a role model, whether you like it or not. Keep that in mind when tempted again to break the law. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank you for the response Judge.
My friend who is 17, who got arrested, has been arrested 3 other times. Do you think she could get something harsher than a diversion program?
And for me, how would they be able to contact me?
Dear Gavin: Your friend may not be eligible for diversion with his record of prior incidents. The process will be explained to him once he goes to court. As far as identifying you, the store or police could contact your school, show then the photo and letterman’s jacket and make an identification. You would then be contacted by the police or receive a summons in the mail to appear in court.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
They obviously have all his information, or he says they do, and he’ll definitely never do it again, but they would have to be very sure it was he in the first tape, right? Because they wouldn’t want to file charges against an innocent person, or i don’t think so at least. And the longer it goes by, the less of a chance there is he will be caught, right? I can’t imagine they would just scan through past security tapes looking for him. Especially since they apparently searched his info and he had never been to the given store before the $150 incident according to their records.
Dear Marco: You’re right. They would have to have a positive identification before filing charges. The chances are slim that they would search further into past tapes, but there’s always the possibility.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
K, good deal. He’ll be relieved to hear it. And I am correct in saying that the longer time goes on, the slimmer the chances are, right?
Dear Marco: Not necessarily because there’s a statute of limitations that applies to all crimes. That means the state has a year to file charges for misdemeanors and longer for felonies. It’s different in every jurisdiction, you’ll have to check yours. Google your state name, shoplifting and statute of limitations for more details.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
K. I know what statute of limitations is, I was just referring to logically, they would have to go back farther in time to see them the longer time goes on, and therefor it is probably more unlikely.
Correct.
And it would also be tough to I.D. him just from security cameras, right? Especially if he didn’t speak to any salepeople that day.
Dear Marco: Not necessarily. Cameras and security systems are always improving – so it would depend on the age of their system.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
K, well one last question, does the fact that while he was being questioned when he was caught shoplifting the $150 item, they checked their records to see if he had done anything like it before, and he hadn’t make a difference? And he doesn’t think they think that he had ever been in the store before.
Dear Marco: It may make a difference in the way the case is handled. If he’s seen as a first offender, he may be eligible for diversion. If this was a second or third offense, he may face greater consequences – it depends on the laws in your area that apply to shoplifting.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
And also, if they did press charges on the first one he didn’t get caught for, do you have any idea how much bail would be, or if bail would even be an option?
Dear Marco: Whether bail is available and the amount is up to your local court and the laws that apply to the case. Every jurisdiction differs on bail amounts and who is eligible for release on bail. In some areas, there is no bail for juveniles unless they’re being tried as adults.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
K, thanks. I’m going to tell him not to worry, considering like 11 days have gone by since he first shoplifted from the store and about 3 have gone by since then second time and the time he got caught.
He just told me that supposedly after three months, his record will be wiped clean, does that mean if they filed the charge after 3 months, then it would be considered a first offense again?
Dear Marco: Not necessarily. He has to look to the laws in his area that apply to shoplifting and the rules of the court. He can contact the court or juvenile probation department and ask for details.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear Judge,
My court date is coming up and I’m not sure how to prepare for it. Can you explain to me who/how many people will be there? If it is private? What documents would I have to bring?
Thank you in advance =]
Dear Donna: If you are a minor, the process will be explained to you when you first arrive at court. Be a little early if you can. If you received any paperwork in the mail, go over it carefully. It should tell you what to bring. Or you can call the court in advance and ask what to expect when you go. Don’t miss your court date and dress appropriately. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
NY shoplifted item $58 first offense
Dear JAS: If you’re a minor and asking what may happen to you, it depends on the laws in your area and the practice of the court and prosecutor. You may be eligible for a diversion program if one exists. That means you would be required to complete some community service work, pay a fine, or attend a class or counseling. If diversion is not available, and you admit the shoplift, you could be placed on probation with similar terms. You could also plead not guilty and go to trial on the charge. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear Judge,
I recently got caught stealing at a store in California with items adding up to around 30 dollars or so. Since I’m 14, the guy didn’t have to call the police or anything, but I was getting a fee. When I put my address down, I forgot that I’m moving in a week or so. When will I receive my fee? Will they know where to send it even though I’m going to have a new address?
Dear Gabby: Most likely your Mom or Dad filed a change of address form with the post office. That way, all mail received after you move will be forwarded to your new address. When you get the letter from the store with the fine, make sure you pay it on time and then this matter will be closed. Hopefully, you’ve learned something from this incident. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My friend got caught shoplifting, although I don’t know what. He lives in Virginia, and it isn’t his first offense. Getting caught shoplifting, means he violated his probation. He also violated his house arrest, although it wasn’t with the anklet, just his mom monitoring him. He is in Juvy now, until March 1st, thats his court date.
Any idea on how long he will be in?
Dear Katie: You said in a second message that he is 15, so since he’s in juvenile court, committed a new offense while on probation, he may be looking at a period of time in detention. It’s entirely up to the judge who knows his history, family situation and psychological needs. Depending on the facts, he could also be setting himself up for commitment to the juvenile department of corrections. All the best.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have a question for you about background checks. I was arrested at 19 in the state of Wisconsin for stealing a bottle of booze from a Pick and Save. I was fingerprinted and detained for a few hours and was then released. I also admitted to what I had done. I did not have to go to court but I had to pay a fine to the Police Dept. in 30 days. I paid the fine and that was that. My question is will this show up on my background check? If I understand the law correctly I was not convicted because I didn’t go to court. Was the fine Civil Demand, meaning once I pay it my record is cleaned? And also, I am applying for a job as a US Census taker. If this is still on my record will it ruin my chances? Should I just check with the Police Dept?
Thanks in advance for any response at all.
Dear Charlie: Since you didn’t go to court, there is probably no official record of the incident with the judicial system. The police could have their own record of it depending on how long they maintain records of non-court cases. It’s best to check with them to see if they have you on file for this incident. Read the questions carefully on the Census application. You weren’t “convicted” of a crime if you weren’t charged and the matter was handled out of court as a civil penalty to the store. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Me and my bestfriend got caught stealing from wal-mart. We are both 19 and it was our first times stealing. We stole chapstick and when the security caught us he told us that we may be getting a citation in the in about two weeks. Now 3 months later my bestfriend has gotten a letter and we are not sure if it from that. My question is that if it is a citation for that and we pay it will it still show up on our records? We live in CA and we know it was very very very stupid idea to even try it, we both regret it very much. What should we do?
Dear Lawrence: Once you receive the civil demand from the store, pay it as soon as possible if you admit that you shoplifted the item. If you don’t pay, the store may choose to file charges against you. If you don’t go to court about this, there won’t be an official judicial record of the incident. The store may keep its own records in the event you return and/or steal from them again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
We adopted our son when he was 3.Since he has been ten years old,he has been incorrigable.He is almost 18 now,and living with his friends parents.He was caught shoplifting from 2 stores a year ago,and we were fined close to $1000.00 from a Lawyers office who represent the store.(K-Mart)Just recently,the same thing happened.And yes because of Ohio law,we the parents are being fined again.$700.00.I know what the law states about minor children and parental responsibility.Yet I feel that my husband and I are being punished for something we didn’t and wouldn’t ever do.While he merrily goes along with hardly a slap on the hand.What legal rights do we as parents have in a situation like this?If we don’t pay the fines,there could be a civil action put against us.Neither of us have a criminal record of any kind.Moral and decent working folks.Seems so unfair.How about letting the one who did the crime be punished?How can they learn if there are no significant consequences.So frustrating and seems so unfair.The court date is 3 weeks before his 18th birthday.I would think the courts would see this and punish him instead of two people who never would steal anything from anyone.He stole $100.00 worth of things from this store,and we are being fined $700.00? Somethings wrong here.Why are we being punished and why $700.00? Insane.
To add to the previous post,I think my son may continue to shoplift,knowing nothing will happen to him,and we will be made to pay crazy amounts of money. Revenge in other words.For what I don’t know.He laughed the last time he saw we had to pay and said “Ha! They have to pay!” “Nice” mindset.But that’s on him.Still I think the courts here in Ohio should punish him.Punish anyone who shoplifts.
To add to the previous post,I think my son may continue to shoplift,knowing nothing will happen to him,and we will be made to pay crazy amounts of money. Revenge in other words.For what I don’t know.He laughed the last time he saw we had to pay and said “Ha! They have to pay!” “Nice” mindset.But that’s on him.Still I think the courts here in Ohio should punish him.Punish anyone who shoplifts.
Connie
Dear Ms. Cage: First, you sound aware of your state’s laws regarding parental responsibility over the acts of minors. Every state has a monetary limit that parents are held to unless their child is emancipated under the law. Since your son has a court date, as his parents, you should plan to be there and explain your position to the judge. That won’t necessarily relieve you from financial responsibility but the court may take your position into consideration in handling your son’s case. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi im 13 years old and i recently got caught shoplifting from baby blue
I know i know it was a dumb decision and now im really scared! They told me to give down my number and i gave them a fake one, so when they called my parents they didn’t pick up because it wasn’t the real number. And they took my backpack and said that my dad is going to have to come and pick it up by monday morning, and if he doesn’t, then the will call my school to get my information, and he already knows my name because all my notebooks in my bag have my name on it! But when he goes to the school, there might not be anybody there because its winter vacation. Is it okay if one of my gaudrian calls them saying that it was a mistake and that im only 13 and that i’ll never go in that store again and stuff? Also my parents can’t pick up my bag because they work 7 days a week from 7 in the morning to 9 in the night! Im really scared. I know i was stupid! Do you think they will let me go with a warning since im a minor, and let me get the bag myself? Please help im so scared and i don’t want to go to court or anything because as far as my parents, they just think i lost my bag!
Dear Jane: Rather than worrying so much about who knows what or who calls whom, the best solution is to tell your parents the truth about what you did and that you made a mistake. They’re most likely going to find out anyway. So face the music and this won’t change your life drastically. Since you’re 13 and this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion which means you’ll have to finish some community work hours, pay a fine or attend a class or counseling in return for a closure of the case. If the court is not involved, the store can ask you to pay a fine. So, either way, your parents will find out about this – the sooner the better, and from you not someone else. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
It’s real simple and not rocket science kids,if something doesn’t belong to you,you simply should NOT take it.You have no entitlement to it.Pretty basic here.If you choose to steal,you make yourself a thief.You cannot blame anyone or anything else for your choices.You made the choices,you own them.No one gives you permission to steal,but yourselves.”Thief” what a label to have laid upon you from your own choices.Yes,we all make mistakes and we either learn from them or we don’t.In my opinion,what is long term consequences of theft is getting trust back from people.People that matter to you.Stealing goes right along with lying.Hand in hand.Would you like to be stolen from? No. Why is that? Because it’s your stuff,and no one has a right to it but you.Just like you have no right to steal from anyone.You lie and steal,there will be no trust.Rightly so.Trust is not given,it is earned.Young people,the world doesn’t owe you a dang thing!The world doesn’t revolve around you.Nor around me.It doesn’t owe me anything either.What you want, you have to,or should work hard for.Nothing is going to be handed to you.And it’s not yours to take.This mindset nowadays of instant gratification is really childish and selfish.I mean is what you steal worth all the consequences?And there always will be consequences.Not just from the stores stolen from,but legally.Court dates,probations,ankle monitoring,facing a Judge,your squashed reputation,how you feel about yourselves,your parents have to pay money and they did nothing wrong.And,having a record.You do this at 17 or 18,(According to what state you live in and are declared legally an adult)your going to jail.It is what it is.And you’ll have no one to blame but yourselves.Your futures are all coming up.You all have a chace to shine! You have a theft record,who is going to hire you? You want a job that includes saying “You want fries with that or do you want this meal supersized?” 300 times a day the rest of your life? Probably not.I know young people can be impulsive,but you need to start thinking about what will or could happen.In my life,I have found something that works for me,and that is “Doubt means don’t.” If you question & doubt doing something or saying something,chances are real high you should not do or say it.Think about making the right choices.Let’s get real,you all know what the right choices are.If someone is asking you to steal,a so called “friend”…..just tell them “No”. After all,if you steal for someone else,chances are high you get caught,and they go on their merry way.And your in handcuffs going off to jail.You all know right from wrong,and good from bad.Be a person who can hold their heads up high, because they are honest,have a strong work ethic,treat people the way you want to be treated. Life is too short for all this nonscense and foolishness.Truly it is.Become a person of integrity.Learn from these lessons and do not repeat them again.I know I probably sound like your Mom.And that’s OK.Because I am a Mom.The only person your hurting is yourself.
Dear Connie: Thank you for your comments.
I am 23..I may have the worst case ever..a couple of months ago I got caught shoplifting no police were involved, I was banned and paid the civil fine thing and that was the end of it. Just recently, I don’t know why I did it but I shoplifted again (and this is the last time i totally learned my lesson and I am completely ashamed of myself I WILL NEVER DO IT AGAIN..) But i went into a store tole a couple of items that were less than $30, but i bought stuff with a debit card..the lp person caught me and took me in the back ask for some information and i was so scared out of my mind that i would be put in jail so i lied abut my age (BAD IDEA I KNOW I WASN’T THINKING)..i didn’t give the lp person an id or my drivers license number so my mom came they asked for my age my mom gave them a fake birthday and they wrote down my address and my moms id. The lp person was very understanding and nice and she just had me banned from the store and a letter in the mail later and let me go..Now, my question is..there any possible way i could get caught lying? I AM SOO SORRY I WILL NEVER DO IT AGAIN! =(=(
Dear Shawn: It’s possible they could discover the truth regarding your age and birth date. If they do, fess up and do the right thing. You sound remorseful about this incident so don’t make it worse by lying again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi I am 15 and recently got caught shoplifting at a Kmart. They didnt prosecute me because all I had was a pair of $15 dollar headphones (According to there policy its not a high enough amount to prosecute)They took down my information and called my mom. We now have to pay a $200 dollar fine. They said this incident will not go on a criminal record but stores such as sears and other kmarts will be able to see the file. What other stores can see this file and will this affect my ability to get a job at a store such as publix or Dillards? Also lets say I would of ran when they caught me (They caught me right out of the store door) Are they legally allowed to chase me and tackle me down because I am only 15? Also lets say I ran into a store and said these men are trying to kidnap me. Do you think I would have a good chance of getting away?
Thanks in advanced -Alex
Dear Alex: This incident shouldn’t affect future employment opportunities. You don’t have a criminal record, but stay away from the store or next time they could file trespassing charges against you. About tackling you during a chase, you’ll have to look to local law regarding store security and their authority. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Alex,
You sound as if all your sorry for is that you got caught.
And Shawn,with the technology that is out today,it is highly possible they would find your real birth date and age.Skip tracing and all.I’m shocked that your Mom would lie too..
Hi. I’m 19 years old. I got caught shoplifting at a Walmart in Georgia. The merchandise was $34 total. I was arrested and bailed out 8 hours later. I have court on April 1. This is my first offense (I’ve only gotten traffic tickets before this). I’m also in college. Both of my parents are currently unemployed, and I work part-time in fast-food.
I know community service and restitution should be expected, but all I care about is getting my record cleared. I’ve heard about the diversion program, but I have no idea how that works. I also don’t have a lot of money for a lawyer ($500 maybe). I can’t let this affect my future employment. Please help!
Dear Amy: Since this is your first offense, you may be eligible for a diversion program if it exists in your area. If it does and you’re offered this as a way to handle this charge, it will mean you’ll have to complete work hours, pay a fine, complete a class or counseling in return for a closed case and no formal record of the incident. This won’t be allowed for a second offense, however. This shouldn’t affect your future education or employment plans if all terms are completed on time. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
me and two other friends of mine were caught shoplifting @target. our ages are 14, 17, and 17. the 14 year old girl stole items that were about $30 while me and my other friend stole items worth $50 in total. The security got us and sent us to the room where they got our information. they also called the police and we were sent to the police station. they got our finger prints and info, called our parents and had them pick us up. they notified us that we were going to be getting a mail notifying us about the court date. does this mean that target is pressing charges against us in addition to the fine? we live in newark, ca btw.
Dear Mel: It could mean that Target is pressing charges and the process will be explained to you when you go to court. Or it could mean that you’ll be offered a diversion program through the court. For first time offenders, diversion is common. Once you complete some community service hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter is closed. Don’t miss your court date. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was recently caught for shoplifting in nyc . i am not a
US resident . i am her eon F1 visa . What will happent o me ?
Dear Kim: Depending on your age and whether this is a first offense, you may be offered diversion. That means if you complete some community service hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. You may be eligible for the same program if you’re over 18 if New York City has a diversion alternative. If the value of the items taken is low, this incident shouldn’t affect your status with Immigration. Repeat offenses may, however, result in deportation. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Dear Tom,
Today I was caught shoplifting at Sears in the state of Washington. It totaled up to $70 something. I am currently 17 years old, about to be 18 in less than a month. When I got caught, police was called in to ask for my id, address, etc. My mom came, signed a few papers and we were let go with information about court and what not coming in the mail later. Couple months ago, I had a case that I got deferred ($150 fee, and I can’t get things deferred anymore for another 7 years).
Will my high school be informed of this? (Will I get kicked out, etc)
Will the colleges I applied to, be informed of this?
Will I have trouble receiving scholarship or any loans because of this?
Will I have trouble finding a job after this?
Will this show up on my record?
What are the consequences that I will have to face?
I’ve learned my lesson, and I am most sorry for my mom who had to go through this and be in pain all because of my idiotic actions. I’m never doing this again.
Please inform me in any kind of way that you can.
Thank you.
Dear Heidi: You state that this is your first offense but that a few months ago you had another matter that was deferred. That may be why you’re going to court this time. Either way, the process, including your options, will be explained to you at court. You may be offered diversion depending on your first offense and whether you complied with the terms. Schools don’t normally find out about shoplifting incidents and this shouldn’t affect college or job opportunities in the future. Read any application you’re filling out very carefully and answer truthfully. If you’re in juvenile court for these offenses and are either diverted or you admit to the charge and are found delinquent, you haven’t been “convicted” of a crime. Discuss this with the court officer you’ll meet when you go. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Heidi.
do they normally bring videos of you stealing in court? if they catch you from previous videos, can they bring that up and charge you more money?
Dear Mel: Videos that have caught you in the act could be used in court, but generally are used only if the case goes to trial. In other words, if you plead not guilty and a trial is set, the prosecutor may obtain the tapes from the store and attempt to use them as evidence of the crime. If there are additional videos of you shoplifting on other dates, the police and prosecutor could review them and consider new charges. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi. Im 19 and was caught shoplifting with a friend. The amount of the items I stole was $120. Im completely mortified. Sadly, I had been in the same store a week before and stolen items but didn’t get caught. Can they go back and review tapes and charge me for that? Also, what do you think my sentencing would be? This is my first offence…would I go to jail? I live in los angeles california if that’s any help. Once again i am completely ashamed. I can’t bare to see the look of dissapointment on my parents faces again. :’(
Dear JJ: The store may review earlier tapes and if you’re seen shoplifting, they could tell the police. Additional charges may be filed by the prosecutor. As an adult and a first offender, you may be placed on probation with terms including community service hours, a fine, restitution to the store, a class or counseling. Don’t give in to temptation – the consequences increase as you reoffend. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Im not sure if my question got approved. But im 19 and was caught with a friend shoplifting. My amount was $120 worth of stolen items. I deeply regret it. This happened yesterday and I haven’t been able to eat or sleep. Sadly, I had stolen items a week before but didn’t get caught. Would they go back and look at videos and even though they didn’t catch me would they still charge me? Also, this is my first offence, will I go to jail? I live in los angeles california if its makes a difference. and I can’t afford a lawyer, do I have to get one? And should I plead guilty? I mean I know I did it
I really won’t ever do this again…couldn’t stand the dissapointment for my parents…
Dear JJ: It is unlikely that you will go to jail, but remember anything is possible. It depends on the law in this case, the judge and prosecutor, your history, etc. The court may give you a lawyer when you appear for your hearing. The process will be explained to you at court. Discuss your options with your lawyer and then decide how you want to proceed. Pleading guilty is entirely up to you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
sorry again. i was also wondering if i am qualified for a public defender. i dont have a job and i dont go to school. are my parents accountable for hiring a laywer for me since im living under their roof and they will pay for all other fees?
Dear JJ: The assignment and availability of a public defender depends on the resources in your community. Not all jurisdictions have a public defender’s office. And assignment depends on your income and parent’s ability to hire an attorney for you. You can find out more about this when you go to court. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
So if they suspect that I was shoplifting the previous time before I got caught and they press more charges, will I be notified of the added charges?
JJ: Absolutely. The Fourteenth Amendment requires that everyone, including teenagers, be notified of any charges filed against them and an opportunity to be heard by the court. If you’re charged with the earlier shoplifting, it could be considered a second offense depending on the criminal laws in your state. Two offenses on two separate dates may be treated as one conviction or two depending on a number of factors. Discuss these with your probation officer or attorney.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
But how exactly could they prove if I was shoplifting if they didn’t catch it in my possesion? And as for notifying me of additional charges, how would that work? Would they send me something in the mail? Sorry for all the questions but I have been able to eat or sleep, I am really sorry
Dear JJ: Proving that a crime has been committed is different from charging someone. The state has to prove the case against you beyond a reasonable doubt. This means they need strong evidence that you shoplifted. The exact details of the incident must be shown in court and that’s something you would discuss with your lawyer if you decided to plead not guilty. If they decide to pursue this any further, the prosecutor may ask the police to find you so you can be notified. You could receive notice by mail or be personally served with papers. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
ok im asking too many questions now…im scheduled for jury duty tomorrow, however, when i filled out the questionaire it was before the shoplifting incident. what do i do? still go?
Dear JJ: Yes, still go, otherwise you may not like the consequences for not showing up. Explain the situation to the jury commissioner when you get there. Ask if it’s necessary to update the form regarding incidents since you completed it.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I’m 15 years old and got caught shoplifting around $40 worth of merchandise. It was my first time. I returned all of the merchandise and went to see the clerk magistrate. We also recieved a fine in the mail for 250 dollars that my mom didn’t pay yet because she thought we should hear the verdict beforehand. The clerk magistrate dropped my charge. Soon we recieved 2 more letters saying we had a fine for 500 dollars. My mom refuses to pay that big of a fine for a misdemeanor. I understand that I should pay for it, but I don’t have a job because jobs for my age are seasonal here. When I am able to earn the money i’d be 100 percent willing to pay my mom back, but she won’t pay it. I want to know that if my mom refuses to pay, can I get in trouble for it? Also, would this effect my ability to get a normal part time job?
Dear Caitlyn: In most states, there are two consequences for shoplifting. First is civil, meaning the store can impose what is called a “civil demand” against you. The letter requesting the $250.00 from the store was the civil resolution of the offense. The second part is a formal charge filed with a court – the criminal aspect of the incident. You said the court dismissed it, so what’s left is your obligation to pay the demand – it may be up to $500 now because the statute may allow a higher amount for nonpayment. It shouldn’t have any affect on your job applications since you were convicted or adjudicated of shoplifting. The fine needs to be paid asap or it may increase again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello Judge November 4 2009 me and my fiend stole a purse bag full of thigs like candles, clothes, decorations from Kohls in Ohio. A security personel asked us to come back into the store. I recieved the civil demand of 200.00 and I paid it in January. The security guy took our pictures posted a ban from the store for life.the police was called and took a report then let us go. Me and my Friend Havent heard anything else from Kohls or the counties court. What should I expect now that its almost March and havent heard anything yet? Thanks for your Help.
Dear Heather: Depending on your location and the volume of cases filed in your county, you may be in the clear. If the state was going to file shoplifting charges against you, it would have happened by now. Unless your local district attorney is backed up with cases. There is usually a year in which they can file the charge – it’s called a statute of limitations setting a time period to file – usually a year for misdemeanors and longer for felonies. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank You Judge for your information given. Blessings
I was caught taking a DVD 0ut 0f a case and I waIked 0ut with it. This is my first time steaIing and I did s0 intenti0naIIy because I feIt that WaIMart and KMart are the 1s steaIing fr0m pe0pIe in f0regn c0untries.
Anyway, I g0t caught and I understand that I have 2 pay 4 the item. WHat I’m w0ndering is that is it IawfuI f0r me 2 have 2 pay f0r the item and nt get the item…I returned the item 2 the pers0n wh0 caught me. S0 I have 2 pay f0r it and they get 2 keep it?
Dear James: Most states have civil statutes allowing retailers to seek what is called a “civil demand” from anyone who shoplifts from their establishment. The amounts vary but may be in the hundreds of dollars. If unpaid, they may choose to file formal charges against the thief. This holds true whether the item taken is returned or not. If removed from the original packaging, they may not be able to place it back on the shelf as a new item for the original price. Furthermore, your political beliefs don’t justify breaking the law. Try explaining your reasoning to the judge and see how far it gets you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Last August I was caught internal shoplifting of $165. The police were called and wrote me a citation BUT I payed my restitution that same day with a money order. Later maybe two weeks later the lp guy went and dropped all charges against me and I did not have to go to court. I was never charged for the crime in front of a judge so I wanted to kno because the police filed a citation would this appear on my background check for my employer to see?
Dear Janee: Every jurisdiction handles shoplifting cases differently. You don’t have an official “record” since you weren’t charged with a crime or go to court. Your case was handled through a “civil demand” and you paid the fine. Depending on where you apply for a job and your police department policies regarding record keeping, there may be a note in a file about this incident. Check with the police involved to see how they handle these cases. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
me (24) and a friend (19) got caught shoplifting in Arkansas (we live in Missouri) from JcPenny. we are now banned from the store. we were arrested and taken to jail. bonded out. and have to appear in court on March 8th. This is our first time offense. Everything i’m reading online is saying we can be sentenced to up to a year in jail. i’m really hoping that does not happen. what is most likely to happen in court? should we get a lawyer?
Dear Dolly: The year in jail is probably the maximum sentence available to the court. You’re not likely to receive this as it’s your first offense. You may be offered diversion which means that upon completion of community work hours, payment of a fine, restitution to the store, a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. Or if you plead guilty, the same consequences may be imposed. The process will be explained to you when you go to court and then you can decide whether you need a lawyer or not. Don’t miss your court date and dress appropriately. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was arrested a little over a month ago for shoplifting. i was put on probation and had to pay fines. Yesterday i was caught again. I go to school full time and applied for a job. What are the chances of me going to jail? i have learned my lesson and know i will never shop lift again
Dear Polly: Depending on your age and whether you’re a juvenile or not, you could spend some time in detention. You not only broke the law again, but you violated your probation. The judge may want to up the consequences with a stint in lock-up. Of course, it’s entirely up to the court. If you continue to steal, the length of time in jail will increase. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was arrested a little over a month ago for shoplifting. i was put on probation and had to pay fines. Yesterday i was caught again. I go to school full time and applied for a job. What are the chances of me going to jail? i have learned my lesson and know i will never shop lift again. im 18
Dear Polly: Since this is your second offense in a short period of time and you’re already on probation, the judge may decide to give you a taste of what it’s like to lose your freedom. It depends on the facts of the incident, the judge assigned to your case, and what the prosecutor will be recommending as a penalty. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
thanks for your advice.
Im pretty sure i got caught stealing.I went to supermarket to get a couple of things and i ended up stealing something(small worth $6)i dont know why but i just did(stupid right). I soon as i was finishing paying at the register for my other things i had. two people that looked like manager or the Lp came, but didt say anything to me but just kept staring at me and talking amongs themselfs.So i grab my things and leftthe store,got in my car and left.They did’t chase me or anything..Can i still get in trouble?
Dear Vic: It’s possible that you could receive a letter in the mail notifying you of a fine. But not likely since they have no identifying information from you other than the license number on the car. This still wouldn’t necessarily lead them to you if it was a borrowed car, for example. You might consider returning the item and apologizing – which would be the right thing to do in this case. Don’t steal again – you may not be so lucky next time. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello, i am 15 years old.& i recently got caught stealing from wal mart. it was the first time i have ever got stealing before, & the first time i have ever been in trouble with the law. My spring break is coming up in a few weeks, i have plans to go to texas with my friend. (the friend who i got caught stealing with & she is 18.) Someone had mentioned to me, that i might not be able to go to texas or leave the state at all without a gaurdian because of the trouble i had got into. i was wondering if this is true?
Dear Mariah: It may be true depending on the circumstances of your situation. First thing to consider is the law of your state. As a minor, it may restrict your travel until this incident is resolved. If you were formally charged with shoplifting, any court orders regarding your release must be followed. Even if there are no outstanding orders limiting your travel out of state, then you still need your parents’ or guardian’s permission to go. Considering this 18-year-old was your accomplice in the shoplifting, your parents may not approve a trip with her. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
So a couple of weeks ago, me and 2 other friends went to store and started ripping the security tags off,(damaged the clothing) as soon as we left the store we got caught. This is my first time i EVER done such, one of my friends has been seen doing the same thing but never caught, and my other friend has been involved in a situation where he/she was with someone who stole something and they both got caught she was given a warning. Does this mean, since i was caught committing a crime with these two people the consequances will be worse, i feel so horrible. I cant seem to look in the mirror and see the person i use to be. I live in Toronto Ontario Canada, and the amount of stolen goods in my bag added up to $380 ( theft under $5000) Should i call the store and apologize, even though it was a couple weeks ago? i really want to, but at this stage i dont know, im scared and regret everything i did. We were given a ban which restricted us from going back to that mall for a year.
what are the possible outcomes?
Dear Mel: The consequences depend on whether you’re going to court or not, and whether you’ll be charged with shoplifting or theft. If not, then be sure to stay away from the mall forthe year. Otherwise, you may be charged with trespassing since you’ve been warned not to return. Your local court may have a diversion program for first time offenders. If so and you’re eligible, you’ll have to complete some community work hours, pay a fine or restitution to the store, attend a class or counseling. Then the matter will be closed. It’s your decision about apologizing to the store. If you end up in court and admit to the theft, you can do it then. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
HELP! ok check this out. I wanted to play a prank on my golf fanatic friend. He hates titleist balls so for his birthday I was going to buy him titleist balls, but have them in a different golf ball box. (he’ll think I got him bridgestone, but SURPRISE.. Titleist!)
Soooo… I went to WALMART, and switched the lids of the golf balls to disguise the titleist balls. The product rung up bridgestone, but inside were tietlist. Nothing was broken or opened. I simply slid the lids off and swapped them. The difference was $3 on the $29 product!!!!!!
LOST PREVENTIONS stopped me before exiting the store, reached in my bag and confirmed that I had switch tops.
I explained that my intention was not to shoplift, but to disguise these balls and play a prank on a buddy.
They took all my info down, took my picture, and said I would get a letter in the mail and pay a fine. FOR $3!!!! And I wasn’t really shoplifting.
Is there anything I can do???? I don’t want to pay a fine, or have my face in WALMART computers.
Dear Danny: The bottom line here is that stealing is stealing. You admit obtaining an item from the store for $3.00 less than its value by switching the lids. So the store loses three dollars on your transaction. Whether it’s classified under the criminal laws of your state as theft, shoplifting or larceny, it’s illegal. You’re lucky if the store decides not to prosecute but only seeks a civil fine from you. Next time you may be explaining the situation to a judge. Pranks sometime backfire, as you have learned. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi Judge, 2 days ago i got caught shoplifting at tj maxx. i am 21 and live in new york. it was my first time stealing and i really regret doing it. i took something about $4.99 dollars worth. Lp guy put me into a room and i returned item and answered all questions honestly. since i was cooperating, they released me, they didn’t call the police. they didn’t tell me have to pay any fine or go to court. they just got my name address and other information.They said the paper work will stay in the store. i’m still allowed to go to the store but they will watch me. But I am still worried,i am really scared that this incident is gonna come back to haunt me. please help, im really freaking out, i wish i had never done it.
Dear Amanda: You have the right attitude about what you did. Hopefully this lesson will stay with you. If the store just keeps its own record of the incident without notifying the police, it shouldn’t have any affect on your future [jobs, education, military etc]. However, if you return to the store and shoplift again, the outcome will likely be different. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I’m 17 years old and I turn 18 in about 2 months. I live in ohio and was recently caught shoplifting. I was taken back into a room and a police officer was called and I had to call my parents to come pick me up. The only thing the police officer did was write up a report and give me a court date and then I went home with my parents. I am an all A student, recetnly admitted to OSU, and a member of the national honor society. What are some punishments that I may get? I have never had any problems with the law before. I personally only took 3 dollars worth of stuff but my friend took about 50 and They said they were going to lump the sums together. I’m just really confused and scared.
Dear Katie: Since this is your first offense, you may be offered a diversion program when you go to court. Upon completion of community service hours, payment of a fine and/or restitution to the store, attending a class or counseling session, the matter will be closed. The process will be explained to you by a court/probation officer. It shouldn’t have an affect on your education or employment plans, but if you repeat this behavior, it will impact your future. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi again,thanks for your advise. I have one more question,
they didn’t tell me to expect a letter in mail (civil fine, press charged..) should i worry about it? thanks
Dear Amanda: You’ll either receive what is called a “civil demand” letter in the mail or not. If you do, pay it on time if you’re admitting the incident. Otherwise, the store may pursue charges through the court and you can have a trial on the shoplifting charge. If you don’t receive anything in the mail, the matter is likely closed and only on record with the store.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi this is a followup question to the other one i asked today. you said i MAY be offered a diversion program? what is the other thing that could happen if I don’t get offered that?
Dear Katie: If diversion is not available in your area or it’s not offered, then you have to decide whether to admit or deny the charge. If you deny it, then a trial will be set. You can discuss these options with the court and/or your lawyer. The court may appoint one to represent you depending on a number of factors that the court will explain to you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I shoplifted from Forever 21 when I was 17 years old. I only took a ring that was probably $5.00. I was fined and I paid the fine by the time I was supposed to. Is this considered a felony or not?
Dear Mary: It depends on the laws of the state you were in, but it was most likely a misdemeanor not a felony. If you kept any paperwork or court documents from the incident, it might state the classification of the offense. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I got caught shoplifting from a store in Maryland I am ib my 20s. I dont know why did I make that foolish decision. the police were called they took my info and gave me a citation said to wait for a court date. should I hire a lawyer now. What should I expect. Is it going to stay on my record. will i be terminated from my job. I am trying to get into a nursing program. I do not know what to do.
Dear Marie: You may not need a lawyer until you receive a notice to appear in court. Once you go, the process will be explained to you by a court/probation officer. If this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion. That means if you complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling the matter will be closed. At some point in the future, you may be able to apply for an expungement of your record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
my bf got cought shoplifting and he dosent have papers and doesnt want to go to court what can happen to him hes planing to go back to his country befor court date?? this is his first time going to court thanks
Dear Tania: If he misses his court date, the court may issue a warrant for his arrest. If he leaves the country the warrant may remain outstanding. That means if he returns to the court’s jurisdiction, he may be arrested on the warrant and brought before the court. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
The other day my friend and I got caught shoplifting from walmart in ohio. We’re both 17 and will be 18 in about 2 months. I only had 10 dollars worth of stuff in my purse but she about about 60. They said that they were going to combine it. We gave back all the stuff but I forgot to give back one thing. Later they asked me if the thing I forgot to give back was mine. I said it was and they asked my parents and they said it was mine too. They let me leave with my parents. I just realized that The thing wasn’t mine and that I took it. Can I get in more trouble for this? What should I do about it? I have a court date in March and I have no idea whats going to happen. I’m an all A student and in 2 sports and various clubs. Can I get in more trouble for accidently not giving it back or will they even bring it up since my parents said it was mine?
Dear Leslie: Now that you realize that the item is not yours and was taken from the store, tell your parents. Then you can decide how to proceed. Your parents may agree with fessing up now by advising the sore or waiting until you go to court to explain what happened. Either way, the truth about the incident and exactly what was taken, should be revealed. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I went to see a lawyer this morning regarding my case. he told me that he may be able to stop this from getting on my record, but not certain. I can
t sleep at night,I dont know if he can stop it from going to my record.
Dear Marie: Trust that your lawyer will do everything he can that’s in your best interests. If unsuccessful ask him what can be done at a later time and what the process involves. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi Judge,
I posted a question on last fri ,26 Feb
(i apologize for all the questions by the way)
Can the store make a police report after shoplifter leaves the scene?
I am still very worry about it, can i contact LP department of the store to find out?
Thank you!
Dear Amanda: Yes, a store can file a report after the person leaves the store, and the police may follow up with their investigation if they choose to do so. Feel free to contact the store if you’re worried – some would choose to leave things the way they are and not rock the boat, but it’s your decision. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi judge, thanks for your advise, how do you know if the store file a report to the police? how long it takes? because i am going on a trip, so i am a little bit worry.
Dear Amanda: You’ll know if you are served with papers telling you to appear in court, or if the police contact you during their investigation. It could take as long as a year, depending on your state’s statute of limitations regarding misdemeanors.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
can my lawyer help dismiss my case. and how long can it take to get a court date.
Dear Marie: If you have a lawyer, ask him or her these questions. He should know the rules that apply to your case and whether there are grounds to file a motion to dismiss. He can also tell you when to expect a date for the hearing. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My friend and I went shopping and he got caught stealing I got a ticket for shoplifting as well just because I was with him..when I went to court they offered me diversion classes..when i take those does the shoplifting remain on my record or what happens to it?
Dear Charlene: Once you complete all terms of diversion, the matter should be closed. Since you were “diverted” away from the judicial process [formal charges and prosecution], there should be no record of the incident except with the store. The court may keep a note indicating that you’ve been through diversion so it’s not offered again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
So i got caught stealing four shirts at TJ MAX. Im 17 and turning 18 in a month. My mom was brought and so were the police. They gave us a case number and said i should be getting something in the mail. I confessed to stealing somthing before at Target so i was told to return that. What kind of trouble do you think I will be in? I have had a MIC earlier that summer too and thats the first trouble i have ever been in..
Dear Megan: When you receive the letter and you agree to admit the shoplifting, follow the instructions immediately. You may be offered diversion meaning that upon completion of community work hours, payment of a fine or restitution to the store, a class or counseling, the case will be closed. Otherwise you can plead not guilty and go to trial – it’s your decision. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi,
About 2 years ago I was caught shoplifting and was trespassed. Nothing more came of it– I wasn’t charged, did not have to go to court, etc.
My question is: Will this show up on a background check?
Dear M. Wilson: Based on what you’ve stated, it shouldn’t show up anywhere except in the store’s records. If they didn’t notify the police then there shouldn’t be an official record of the incident.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I am 17 and I live in Illinois. My friend and I just got caught shopping in Kolhs. Half of the items were put on my fault because I “aided” so all together it added up to nearly $200. I got prosecuted and my mom had to pick me up from the police station. I do not have to go to court, I only have to take a class. It was my first offense so they said they were going easy on me. How much will this affect my chances of getting into a good college and a job? Also is this considered a felony or a misdemeanor, I wasn’t told.
Dear Gina: Since you weren’t given a court date or formally charged with shoplifting, you won’t have a “record” that will be provided colleges, future employers, etc. The only record will be with the store in the event you return and steal from them again, and with the police department. Complete the class on time and think twice before giving in to temptation again. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi again,
They did in fact call the police. It was a police man who wrote the “tresspass” document up. That is why I am worried it will show up. I would think that it wouldn’t since I wasn’t charged and didn’t have to go to court.
When I stole from the store, I was unfortunately under the influence of Oxycontin. I no longer use drugs anymore though, and am wanting to find a job.
Dear M.: The only record of the incident may be the information card filled out by the police and kept in their department. No official court record would exist if you didn’t have to appear in court.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Im 15 and i got caught for shoplifting for around 300 dollars.On the ticket i recieved it said 334b. I have stolen before from this store but this was the first time I got caught. My record has been clear until this. I am to go to court in a month. Would it be better to have a lawyer? also please explain what plea guilty and innocent are. I Finally realize how serious shoplifting is and i will never even think about it again! but in court will i be asked of previous episodes? Thanks so much
Dear Jamie: You stated in a follow-up message that you live in Canada. The laws of your province will apply to your case. If you deny the shoplifting, you will have a hearing [trial] to decide whether you’re guilty or not. You may be eligible for a court-appointed lawyer. If you admit the shoplifting, the court will proceed to sentencing. That may include some community work hours, a fine or restitution to the store, a class or counseling. At your first hearing, the process will be explained to you, including whether you need a lawyer or not. That is really a decision for you and your parents to make. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank you for replying! I have a great future ahead of me and i dont understand why i stole. but how can i deny the shoplifting if they have it on tape, and what would happen in a trial? what if i said i was innocent but truth is i wasnt, would i be charged of lying?? Im so lost and so dissapointed in myself for not seeing what i was doing. I really want to leave eveything behind and start over , but is there a possibility that my school will be notified? and a permenant record?
Dear Jamie: The trial process and consequences of both admitting or denying the shoplifting charge will be explained to you at court. Generally, schools are not notified of off-campus incidents. After this is behind you, you can ask the court to expunge your record. You may have to wait a period of time [a year, for example, or until you're 18]. It’s a simple process that requires you to stay out of any further trouble to be eligible for a destruction of your juvenile record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
One last question,i have never been in court before, can you please tell me is it gonna be like the ones we see on tv? like with so many people?? thanks so much for your time i really appreciate this
Dear Jamie: We can’t tell you exactly what it will be lke in your area. However, juvenile court hearings are generally closed to the public. In most jurisdictions, it’s nothing like what you see on television. It may involve you, your parents and lawyer, if you have one, the judge, a clerk of the court and court reporter [maybe], and the state’s attorney. There will be a few more people [victim and witnesses] if you plead not guilty and go to trial. Relax. Juvenile court hearings are not quite as formal as other types of proceedings.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
can you give me some pros and cons of havving a lawyer? is it worth the money?
Dear Jamie: A lawyer is trained to know the laws and rules that apply to your case. He or she can attempt to negotiate a deal on your behalf with the state. He would also be able to look at the circumstances of your case and see that your rights are protected throughout the process. If you can’t afford a lawyer, the court may appoint one to represent you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Today, i was caught shoplifting at sephora. the amount was $20. a worker there took me into an office, questioned me and told me that i would have to pay a fine of $1000. is that true? he also made me sign a paper stating that i will be arrested if i enter any sephora ever again. he called the cops and the cop handcuffed me, took me to a security office, and asked me my name, contact info, ssn, height, weight, etc, etc. what will happen? am i required to go to court? do i have to go to juvie? because my mom seems convinced that i will. this is my first offense and they told me that it was a petty misdemeanor. i’m really scared. i realize that it was wrong, but i honestly had no idea what was going on in my head at the time. (i’m 14 and i live in california)
Dear Tiffany: If the officer didn’t give you a citation [ticket] or court date, you may not have to go. Every jurisdiction has its own procedure in handling shoplifting incidents. You may receive a notice in the mail advising you of a date to appear in court. If you do, don’t miss the hearing. The process will then be explained to you. As a first-time offender, you may be offered diversion. That means if you admit the charge, you’ll have to complete some community work hours, pay a fine or restitution to the store, attend a class or counseling and the the matter will be closed. The letter from the store may be a “civil demand”, possibly up to $1,000.00, although that sounds a little high, that you’ll have to pay unless you decide to fight the shoplifting charge. Don’t return to the store or trespassing charges may be filed against you. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi im 18 years old never been in trouble with the law, i currently was fired from my job for using store credit cards with money on them. i received my letter in the mail saying i was being charged with theft less than 100$. please help will i go to jail? will i be able to get a job?
Dear Iesha: It depends on whether the store is handling this as a civil matter or pressing criminal charges against you. If it’s civil, you’ll most likely be required to pay a civil demand fine and the case will be closed. If charges are filed, you’ll have to appear in court where you may be offered, as a first-time offender, diversion. That means if you complete some community work hours, pay a fine or restitution, attend a class or counseling, the case will be closed. Once you’ve finished all requirements, you may be eligible to apply for your record to be expunged. You may have to wait a year or so however before applying. You can ask about this when and if you go to court. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
um when you say the court will appoint one for me do you mean they can pay for it? the thing is my parents are refusing to get me a lawyer, and also the lawyer they appoint, will they try to help me?
Dear Jamie: If you qualify financially for a court-appointed lawyer, then the court may give you one. He or she will represent you at no cost, or minimal cost to you. It’s up to the court. Your lawyer’s job is to represent you in the case zealously and as required by the law and professional ethics. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi, I went to target earlier today and stole a face wash. I’m pretty sure it wasn’t caught on camera and i left the store and drove home. and I didnt really pay attention to cars around me but the car behind me just switched lanes and passed me up and kept going straight and as i was turning, I noticed it was an undercover cop car. I started freaking out thinking they got my license plate. can they show up at my house or call making the claim that I shoplifted, or did I get away with it? And I’m not dwelling on the fact that they were following ME because the main street i was on was the street the city police dept is on. I’m never risking this ever again. What are your thoughts?
Dear Samara: It would be unusual for an undercover officer to be involved in a shoplifting incident. However, every city and town operates differently. You’ll know if you’re in trouble if and when you receive a notice in the mail to appear in court. Hopefully, because stealing is wrong, you’ll mend your ways, not because you’re in fear of getting caught. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
oh okay. Believe me, I’m never doing it again. The reason why I’m thinking it was a undercover cop car is because it had some little police department sticker on the car, but the car didn’t seem to be stalking me. and it wasn’t following me for super long. but also… I’m just curious if, in order for you to be fined shoplifting, must someone have witnessed you in the act? and would a store go through their surveillance tapes just to find out what you look like?
Dear Samara: The store can go through their tapes and try to identify you. The car you saw may have noting to do with the incident. It could have been a coincidence especially since you were nervous and on high alert about getting caught.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i was caught stealing a gift card from work, its my second time stealing. what will happend to me?
Dear Maria: It depends on the store and if the police were involved. If it’s not reported, the store can fine you a certain amount and trespass you from the store. That means don’t return for the period they tell you. The fine may be several hundred dollars. If shoplifting charges are filed you may be offered diversion. That means if you complete some community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. Once you turn 18 you can ask the court to expunge your record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i was in wal mart today and got caught stealing cologne, markers, and a bra. it all added up to $77. I am a little confused because loss prevention told me that he wasnt going to call the cops but that i would be receiving a fine. i did not sign anything though. he just took down the info on my license and my social security number, not my phone number or signature anywhere and joked about how he thought the cologne was more expensive -.- he didnt say i couldnt be on property or anything. but my question is am i going to have to go to court ? because he said once i left the parking lot wal mart couldnt help me any longer. im 18 and i live in nevada and ive never gotten in trouble with the law before.. i just want to know what is happening next.
Dear Hailey: The store can keep the shoplifting incident the store’s business only and not notify the police. If this happens, you’ll get a letter in the mail requiring payment of a civil fine. If this happens, pay it on time and the matter will be closed. Or they can turn the case over to the police to press charges. In that case you’ll receive a notice in the mail about a court date. If that happens, don’t miss the hearing. You may qualify for diversion in court which means you’ll have to complete some work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling and then the case is closed. It would be advisable that you stay away from the store even if you were told to by Wal-Mart.
Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi, im 20 and live in mn. i got caught stealing worth of $265 and got a citation from a police. he says to wait for a letter in the mail to go to court. on the back of the citation is info on how to pay the fine, but i don’t know if im supposed to pay the fine [there wasn't any amount written except for the amount i stole] or if im supposed to go to court first. this is my first time and im scared. will it be on my record, and am i supposed to plead guilty or ask for a diversion or what? im really clueless.
Dear Minkie: If there is no court date written on the ticket, then wait for the notice in the mail. Make sure you attend on the specified date. If this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion. The process will be explained to you by a court/probation officer when you go to court. Diversion may include work hours, a fine, attending a class or counseling. Once you finish whatever you’re required to do, the matter will be closed and at a certain point [a year or two usually] you can ask the court to expunge your record. You can plead not guilty and a trial will be set. It’s your decision and one that will be discussed when you appear for your hearing. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
the police were involved in my incident, state troopers to be exact. they said im going to recieve a letter, but i already paid the company back. and since its my second offence what do you think exactly might happend? one offence was in a different county than now about almost a year ago… what do you think will happend?
Dear Maria: If it’s been a year and you haven’t heard anything, you’re likely in the clear. But that’s no guaranty since every state has its own statute of limitations regarding crimes. Crimes committed in different counties may result in two separate charges filed in different county courts. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i have court on monday for a misdermoner retail theft. now i have done jail time for it already and have bailed out twice for it. i did not finsih my community service hours but i did pay the 300 dollars in fines for missing it. i was just wondering if the fact that i payed my fines for missing it will help me out, because i cannot do anymore jail time.what could i be sentenced? and i have no fines as of right now to pay.
Dear John: Anything you’ve done should help to some degree. However, if you’re in violation of court orders or probation terms, the judge will take that into consideration. Discuss the possible consequences with your lawyer or probation/court officer. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I’m 20 and got caught shoplifting in CA. The total came out to $68. I’ve done it before, twice. And apparently they said that they had it on camera. I feel very badly about this. They took me to LP, and then I went to county jail and they cited me and gave me a court date. Will I be sent to jail? Or will this show up on my record? And if so, what will it say? I feel very badly about this and plan on showing up at court and apologizing profusely. They also banned me from the store where I was planning on going to pay for the items I took previously. So I can’t do that anymore.
Dear Michelle: Since you’re an adult and this is your third offense, you’ll likely have a record. Once you complete all consequences of this incident [probation, work hours, etc.] you may be eligible to clean up your record after a year or two. Ask about this when you go to court. Don’t return to the store or trespassing charges could be filed against you. If you want to pay for past thefts, you could send a letter with payment to the store. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
If I am 18 and was caught Shoplifting in North Carolina, will my parents and my college be notified, or can I take care of it all on my own?
Also, it was my first charge and I don’t know why I even did it. the store called the police and I got a ticket and everyone was very nice about it, but I have a may court date.
Dear HW: Since you’re an adult, your parents may not be notified. Make sure you appear in court on the date given. Police don’t usually notify schools either, but every jurisdiction is different. You should be able to handle this on your own. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was with a friend today in JCP in New Jersey. She took a $9 ring, and I was going to, but decided NOT TO and PAID for a necklace instead. She stuck the empty box in the back on the display case, and while we were paying for my necklace, we noticed an undercover security guard by the case, staring at us, holding TWO empty ring cases. she followed us out of the store and through the mall, but didn’t follow us to my car, stop us, or talk to us. Because they have my credit info, are they going to look me up and fine me, even though I didn’t do anything? or do you feel they’ll let it go?
Dear Allison: Since you weren’t stopped or questioned, it’s unlikely you’ll hear from anyone. However, you could receive a letter from the store requiring that you pay a fine. Since you didn’t take anything, read the letter carefully before deciding what you’ll do. Discuss the situation with your parents who may assist you in resolving this with the store. Good luck.
[This is information only -not legal advice].
I have an edit for my last question, I have shoplifted before, but I wasn’t caught. They only have footage. they never took me in LP. Does this change your answer?
Dear Michelle: It wouldn’t change the situation unless you were charged or consequenced by the store for the earlier incidents. If that were the case, the penalties for a subsequent offense could be greater.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi im from texas and i was caught shoplifting recently $73.00 worth of merchandise 1st offense. (misdemeanor b) The lp called the police n he took me to mcallen police station. there i waited to see the judge for my bail amount ($502.00) from there i was taken to county after they took all my info down i was bailed out. but the officers there told me to expect a court date… what will happen next? and i was also wondering if i will lose my job at a clothing store because of this… does the county inform my employer?
Dear Arleen: You stated in a second message that you’re 19 – that’s why you’re in adult court and not the juvenile system. Since this is your first offense, you may be offered diversion. That means if you complete some community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling, the matter will be closed. You can plead not guilty and go to trial on the charge – it is your decision. The process will be explained to you when you go to court. After a period of time [a year or two] you may be able to apply for an expungement of your record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
ok my name is matt and i live in chicago il..im 14 years old and me and my friend got caught shoplifting… i took only $15 worth of things and he took more then $50 worth of things.This is my first time ever!!! he did it before.. So what will happen?what do i pay?? do i get arrested??? help!!
Dear Matt: First, relax. If the police didn’t come to the store and give you a ticket or notice to appear in court, then the matter will likely be handled by the store. You may receive a letter in the mail telling you to pay a “civil demand” which is a fine. Pay it on time if you admit the shoplifting. You can also choose not to pay and fight it in court. Discuss this with your parents. Also, if the store told you not to return, don’t. Otherwise, they can file trespass charges against you.Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I’m only fifteen. I shoplifted from a local jewel in Illinois but i didn’t get caught. The thing that happened though was that I left the packages in the store and I’m sure they looked over the security tapes after finding out its me and my friends. its my first (and last) time. What I’m afraid is that something will happen to me if I ever go back. Like will they stop me and then arrest me? I’m a bit confused on what can possibly happen to me but all I know is that I’m done with this whole shoplifting deal.
Dear Karen: Glad to hear you’re done stealing – your life will be much better for it. If you return to the store and they know it’s you from the video, they may question you and/or call the police. Every store has its own policies regarding the treatment of shoplifters. You might want to avoid the store for awhile or better yet, return and apologize for your behavior. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Im 15 ready to turn 16 and im filling out job applications.. it asks ‘have you ever been convicted of a felon or misdemeanor?’ check yes/no… a few years ago i got caught stealing about $5 dollars value, and didnt get pressed charges. the cops were called and i was asked questions there, then taken to the police station where my mom was called and i was asked more questions, and the officer filled out a form… i was banned from the store for awhile, wit no charges pressed, but a form filled out, i dont know if im actually convicted. on my application do i check yes or no? i live in kansas if that helps.. thanx.
Dear Sherissa: First, since you weren’t charged with shoplifting or anything else, and you didn’t go to court, you weren’t convicted of anything. It sounds like this incident was handled as a civil matter and your only record s with the store and a notation that may be on file with the police. There’s a good chance it’s gone since it’s been a few years. Read the employment questions carefully and answer truthfully.
Good luck with the job and your education.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
do the police notified current job or scholl for shoplifting.
Dear Marie: In most cases, the police don’t have the time to contact employers or schools of criminal activity unless it is connected with the store or school. It may also make a difference if the offender is already on probation with specific terms involving the school or business.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank you very much for your response. Yes I’m also glad, you have no idea how awful I felt! I’m not sure if they will actually call a police or question me since its a pretty big store and they have other problems and such. I have been avoiding that store and I’m afraid to go back and apologize…what if they arrest me or call the police?
Dear Karen: You may consider writing them a letter of apology to ease your conscience.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
This is a first offense for me. I am regretting ever doing such a stupid thing. I am planning to plead guilty but will I be charged as an adult? What will happen after I plead guilty? I heard that PL 165.40 is punishable by up to 1 year in prison. I really don’t want to go to jail, especially when I am so close to graduating high school. I don’t want this one bad judgment to ruin my life. Can I get this record sealed?
I also heard something about an ACD. How can I request one? Can I request one without an lawyer? Can I request an ACD before my trial?
Dear Ann: You mentioned in a separate message that you were charged with shoplifting. Since this is your first offense, you’re not likely to be tried as an adult, or be sentenced to one year in prison. That’s the maximum sentence usually given repeat offenders. You may be offered diversion which means if you complete some community service, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling the matter will be closed. It shouldn’t affect your education or graduation date. There are different abbreviations and acronyms all over the country – what does ACD stand for? When you go to court, ask about sealing your record. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi. im 19 years old and i got caught shoplifting at sears for $115.94 worth of clothing and other places.but the cop just returned them to the stores. im extrememly scared and upset at myself.i dont know what to do. the cops handcuffed me and took me to the station where they just took all my information fingerprints, mugshots, and then let me go without paying. he said that i would have to pay about $130 but i didnt have to beccause he talked to his seargant and he was in a good mood and i was cooperating with them and i had no record. this is my first offense and my court date is april 6th. should i hire a lawyer? how much am i going to get fined? i live in elgin, il. will it be on my record forever?
Dear Sharon: The criminal process will be explained to you when you go to court. Since this is your first offense, you may be offered a diversion program. That means if you complete community work hours, pay a fine, attend a class or counseling the matter will be closed. That’s if you admit the shoplifting. If you deny it and go to trial, the conseuences may be similar including a probation period. Either way, after a period of time [a year or so] you can request that your record be expunged. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Thank you for answering, and also sorry for late reply. I got a question, it the same one as the one I ask before but it just some more info that I want to ask. All the item is under 200 dollar, and will I go to jail or I just gonna get Community Hour or what? And I live in Virginia, so will anything will happen?
Dear Viet: What happens will depend on your age, history with law enforcement and the courts, and other factors. It will be up to the judge to decide the consequences. You may be offered diversion that would include work hours, a fine or restitution, and counseling. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].