Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Adult & minor caught shoplifting - VA

[rtfworriedmom]

My son and daughter, 19 and 16 were caught shoplifting at a chain store with a 16 y/o friend. A first time offence for all. The police were called, the goods were returned. The minors were told to expect information in the mail regarding a court date. My son, who had not taken any goods, was given a court date in December for Concealment. The following day, the arresting officer called to say he was booking another charge of Contributing to the Delinquency of a minor with an earlier court date. I had to take him down to the station to fill out the forms, get fingerprinted and he was released without bond.
I cannot imagine whatever came over them to do this. I have been searching many sites for some kind of information on court procedures, etc., as my husband and I have no experience in this area at all. I feel we need to get a lawyer. From what I have been reading, his situation is much worse than that of the girls. He is living at home, going to a local college. Both girls are good students. I'm feeling they have all just ruined their lives. They have since been severely restricted and I know they need to pay restitution, in whatever way, but I would so hate for my son to get a prison sentence. Does anyone have any experience with this combination of bad choices and possible outcomes? I would appreciate any input. Thankyou

 

[thelawjournal]

You are correct all need Lawyers. The two 16 year olds should discuss diversion or some kind of deferral program to protect their records. The 19 year old has more serious problems as you well know. He might not get out of this without a record and possbily jail time as well. If I am not mistaken VA has a mandatory 2 day jail time for theft. He needs to all he can to show he is decent citizen and just made a bad choice. One thing he could do (all three for that matter) is enroll in an Anti theft course. This will show Judge remorse and that the parties are being proactive in correcting errors. This is always a good thing. I can recommend a course offered by NASP.

 

[NormanJr]

Virginia has very tough theft laws. This could have very serious consequences for your son. Even though he did not steal anything, he can still be charged with the theft as well as the contributing charge (which is sounds like he was).

What county was he charged in. Northern Virginia courts have the most leeway, but most other areas, Southwest Virginia, the Cheasapeake Area etc are VERY strict and impose the mandatory sentencing.

Your son needs to get an EXPERIENCED criminal defense attorney that specializes in theft cases. Virginia has some strict laws and if your son gets caught twice again committing petty theft, it automatically becomes a felony for every subsequent offense. Concealment in Virginia is the same as theft and he can spend up to a year in jail and a huge fine.

Take a deep breath, relax, tell your son to relax and start calling lawyers in your area. Do not settle for the first lawyer and have them push to get this completely off your sons record. Even if he has to spend some time in jail, as long as he is not found guilty, all will be well.

As for the juvies, they will most likely take a class, write a letter and have to pay the civil demand to the stores. It will not be on their public record. My advice is to get them some help. They may not see the seriousness of their actions and might fall back into stealing. They are lucky they got caught this young because honestly, I think the adult is pretty sunk and will spend time in jail for this offense unless you get the best lawyer possible.