Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft 21 and made a BIG mistake

[stupidchoice]

I am 21 years old with a 5 month old daughter. My husband is in the Army. He was gone for training and I had a lapse in judgement and shoplifted from an AAEFES store (on a military base but run by a civilian contractor) I shoplifted $180 in merchandise and cooperated fully when confronted. I was issued a citation and then sent a letter from AAEFES to pay $206 as restitution. I also lost ALL AAEFES privilages for one year. That's basically EVERY store on a military base. I can only shop for food at the food store. I cannot get gas on base, diapers, clothes, etc. for a year. I thought that would be it until tonight when I received a letter in the mail to show up for a court appearence. I thought I was already punished. I paid a fine and I have lost almost ALL my on post privilages. My husband is deploying August 8th. My court date is August 18th. Do you think with this being my first offense, basically a single mother while he's deployed, and already having been punished if the courts might go easier on me? It's a civilian court since AAEFES is a civilian contract. I just don't want to serve any jail time. Not while my husband is fighting in Iraq and with a 5 month old at home. I also live in Washington state. Thank you!!!

 

[thelawjournal]

1st offense shoplifting charge rarely carries any jail time. Expect fines, probation, community at very least. You should talk to a Lawyer so you cna plan your defense and get best deal possible.

 

[Guest]

First off I want to thank your Husband for what he is doing. Now on to your poor decision. You need a Lawyer. Not that jail is at risk its not. You want to reduce the damage done here. I suspect you also would like to see no record of conviction on this. When you meet with your Attorney ask him if there is a Diversion program available and if you qualify

 

[badshoplifter]

I am so sorry you have to go through with this.
A month ago, I was also caught. Maybe even from the same exact place. But I had $55 worth of products and I'm a minor. So mine was probably handled differently from yours. I got a civil demand of $200 and then paid it right away. I thought it was all over. I was very wrong. Exactly a week later I got a letter from the DOA and I have a "meeting" with the magistrate. I think its for probation. It was basically a threat letter. If i don't go to the appointment, I will be sent to court and be prosecuted. Now, what I'm afraid of, is cops coming to my house because of my previous shoplifting cases. This may even affect your husband.

You can message me personally if you want to talk. I know when I got caught, I could not tell ANYONE.

 

[Guest]

Bad: I think the poster is looking for answers not an AA meeting. Your case does not sound similar other than you both stole. You stole a month ago and now you want to sponsor someone else? If the poster wants to talk there are shoplifting groups out there she can join. My impression of what is done here is provide accurate information to offenders so they can reduce the damaged caused by their actions. I get it you want to help and thats great, I just dont think you qualify. No offense intended. Lets give the poster the advice they came here for. Save the consenling to others more qualified

 

[badshoplifter]

I apologize for using the site incorrectly. I just know that when I was caught, I had to discuss it with someone. Hope all turns out well.

 

[thelawjournal]

I understand you mean well and personally I think your efforts should be applauded. It just this site is not for that purpose. We have referral sources we can suggest if that be the case though