Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Caught Shoplifting Macys California

[rtfmadeamistake]

I was caught shoplifting. The item was on clearance, but they are making me pay full price of $77. This was my first time offense, and first time shoplifting. I made a terrible mistake and WILL NEVER do it again. (I'll never shop again for the matter either) I am a full time university student, 19 years of age.

They got my DL, SS and information. No police were called, no fingerprinting either. They told me that I would get something in the mail, which I assume is the civil demand. I am fine paying the fee, but what I fear is a court case. What will happen? Will I be going to court? I was cooperative, I did what I was told in the security room, the item wasn't damaged, I brought no tools or anything.

Please help. I'm very nervous and scared. I want to talk to someone, but I don't know who.

 

[rtfmadeamistake]

Re: Caught Shoplifting Store Name California

Oh also to add, that I am also banned from the store for 3 years. And how long should I wait for the civil demand notice? Should I call the number they gave me and ask if it was sent or not? I want to pay it ASAP. :[

 

[thelawjournal]

Re: Caught Shoplifting Store Name California

Civil Demand can take days, weeks even, months. If you had not got your letter in two months then call. Sounds like you lucked out and no Police were called. Unless they file charges later this will be behind you once you pay Civil Demand

 

[NormanJr]

Re: Caught Shoplifting Store Name California

Was this a major department store?

If the store did not call the police that means in most cases they will settle the matter via the Civil Demand and Trespass. With a three year ban, I think I know the company that got you and if they did not call the police at the time of incident, you will most likely not be going to court.

Take a deep breath
Pay your civil demand
Obey the trespass
Steal no more

 

[rtfmadeamistake]

Re: Caught Shoplifting Store Name California

Thank you everyone for your replies. Am I allowed to tell you the store name? I guess you could say it's a Major Department store. ***REMOVED BY ADMIN - will be able to identify retailer***
Although they didn't call the police, I forgot to mention that they also took my picture, a picture of my bags and items. I am worried that although they didn't call the police, I think they might file a report because of everything they did. And they handed me a "civil demand notice:
CIVIL DEMAND NOTICE

You have been detained for a shoplifting incident and/or for causing a loss to STORE NAME.

State laws five merchants a civil claim for damages and/or a monetary penalty against you (or the parent of guardian of a juvenile), as a result of this incident.

This civil claim is separate from any criminal punishment or criminal penalties, and is also separate from and promissory agreement related to this incident.

This civil claim may take into consideration:
*The retail vaue of the merchandise
*The costs associated with providing Loss Prevention prote4ction to our building and its contents
*And other damages and/or penalties as permitted by law

You will soon receive a letter from Store's Civil Recovery Department explaining the amount owed and seeking prompt payment.

Also, if I were to go to court, what would happen? Would it be better if I talk to an attorney? And if it IS better to talk to them, how should I address this to them? I am so ashamed to even face myself in the mirror, more so how should I explain this situation with an attorney. :[

Thank you so much for all your replies. Thank you.

 

[thelawjournal]

Re: Caught Shoplifting Store Name California

If you use this sites PM function you can discuss the store name and issues with Normanjr there rather than out in public. As stated it appears no criminal action is filed. Until that happens you can hold off on talking to an Attorney in my view

 

[NormanJr]

Re: Caught Shoplifting Store Name California

I am familiar with the company that you got caught in. You should try and pay the civil demand instore (that company takes instore payments) that way you know it is promptly applied to your account and you will receive a receipt of payment. Make sure you call them before you come into pay the amount.

Do not worry. If they were going to charge you they would have called the police.

Call them and work out a way to pay the amount in store.