Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Not arrested , but thes sheriff said I could be charged for accessory

[Ocean]

A friend asked me to pick him up from the mall, so. I picked him up. As I drove off, I stopped for a red light intersection. Once the light turned green and I started to drive off. A sheriffs car pulled me over. It turns out the person I picked up had been shoplifting in retail stores, clothes he shoplifted were under his regular clothes. I had no idea. The sheriff arrested him and said I . Was accessory to crime. The sheriff let me know I was going to jail. He took me to station and I gave my statement and then they let me go. I have no criminal record and never been arrested. Can I be charged with accessory ?

 

[shrinkmaster]

I am a retail theft professional and I do not believe you can be charged based on your post. Unless you were seen or filmed with your friend just prior to theft its unlikely they can successfully prosecute you. However you should discuss this with a local Attorney familiar with your states laws on theft. Many offer free consultations so I suggest you get a few

 

[CdwJava]

Will surveillance video show your vehicle in the parking lot waiting for him? Will phone records back up your claim that he called you after he left?

Maybe you can be charged, maybe not. It might be difficult to charge you unless your pal dimes you off. I suggest you consider your friends more carefully in the future.