Can you be arrested for shoplifting after the fact?
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Can you be arrested for shoplifting after the fact?
I was stopped at the door at retail store. I told them the $25 jacket was mine. As they were checking the tape I left. It was a stupid, stupid mistake that I chose to make. What should I do?
Asked on August 2, 2014 under Criminal Law, South Carolina
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
Yes, you can be arrested "after the fact"; in fact, most arrests occur "after the fact"--contrary to TV or the movies, it is very rare for a criminal to be arrested "in the act." All that's necessary is that there is sufficient evidence (such as a security videotape) that a crime was committed.
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