What the most likely outcome will be/what will happen if I was recently caught stealing $19 worth of merchandise?
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What the most likely outcome will be/what will happen if I was recently caught stealing $19 worth of merchandise?
When I was caught the police came and gave me a ticket with a court date. I was never fingerprinted or brought to a police station, just given a ticket and immediately released. I am 21, work part-time and go to college. I have no record whatsoever (one traffic ticket, nothing criminal). I cannot have this on my record and have been driving myself crazy over the anxiety. I am scheduled to appear this week.
Asked on May 11, 2015 under Criminal Law, Connecticut
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
Please ask for a lawyer because you will likely be charged with larceny in your state. Shoplifting is considered larceny. The charge and penalty is based upon the value of the merchandise. Your charge should be larecny in the 6th degree (value under $500) and because it is your first offense you should be allowed to participate in a diversion program - take a class, stay clean for 6 months and have the charge dismissed. Plead not guilty. Consider an attorney.
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