Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft I am 19, live in utah, retail theft on air force base?

[arojosta]

Hey, i tried to steal 4 ps3 games, worth all together $240. i was caught, not hand cuffed, i went to the security office, and they took pics, took my id card, and gave me a court date. the charge is retail theft, class b misdemeanor in utah. what is the WORST that can happen? what is likely? its my first offense, i ship off to army boot camp on jan 20th, any advice??thanks, oh, and will i serve any jail time at all??

 

[thelawjournal]

Jail is possible but not likley. However this might very well keep you out of the service. You need to do two things right away

1. Talk to a Lawyer many offer free consultations. Get as many as you can

2. Talk to your recruiter unless you want tossed out of service before you even start

 

[arojosta]

I have already talked to my recruiter, he says i can still join, just as long as the issue is resolved before i ship off, and if i get probation or what ever, he says i just have to wait is all, jail time really is likely? any idea of how much jail time? i dont know if i mentioned its my first offense or anything, but when i call a someone i just say "hey i was wondering if i can get a free consultation?" or what do i say to him?

 

[thelawjournal]

You call as many Lawyers as you can and set up free consultations with any who offer. You explain your situation and they can advise you from there. Jail is not likely but is on the table. Ask about Diversion so your record can remain clean. Note that even with Diversion there is a probation period. It may be possible to serve while on probation but that will depend on The Military and courts approval

 

[arojosta]

alright so i actually have to meet up with the guy to get my consolation, i would probably qualify for a diversion program right? and i know jail is on the table, i read somewhere for my state a class b mistameanor is no more than 6 months, or 180 days, is that true? (utah)

 

[thelawjournal]

I have not looked up Utah law but that sounds about right. Note that yours will likey (if jai is even issued) be a lot less. The Attorneys you talk to will know for sure. Another option you might use to reduce chance of jailis enrolling in an Anti Shoplifting course. This will show Judge remorese and action on your part. Always a good thing!! I recommend course offered by NASP.