Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft It was an accident!

[adams4045]

I was cited for a petty theft misdemeanor a few weeks back, but it was a complete accident. I was walking through the department store with a friend and her baby. I went to buy her mom a birthday present, and walked out with a petty theft citation. As we were shopping I saw a pair of slippers ($10) that I liked, and decided to buy them. We continued walking through the store looking for a present, and I placed the slippers in the baby stroller just to free my hands up so I could look at other things. We were in the store for a good 30 minutes, and I totally forgot about the slippers. I walked out of the store, a young lady comes running after me, and escorts me to the back, the police came and cited me. I never admitted guilt. I even offered to pay for them when the lady ran out to catch me, but she wouldn't even listen to what I had to say. Is there any way to fight this. Yes I did walk out of the store with the merchandise, but it was a complete accident. Any advice?

 

[DradoLau]

Adam,

Do they ask you to go to court or just give you a ticket?
I have a similar case like you.

Drado