Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Petty Offense - What are the implications

[dujafo]

Hi,
I have a ticket for "Theft of public transportation services by fare evasion" Colorado Revised Statute 18-4-802 (2). This is a class 2 Petty Offense in Colorado. If I pay this ticket (and admit guilt) will this offense show up on a criminal background check? If I don't pay the ticket and I go to court, is there any outcome from that process that could prevent the offense from showing up on a background check?

I have a good "story" for why I didn't validate my light rail ticket and no prior record, but the bottom line is I hadn't paid the fare and I boarded the train.

Thanks for any help you can provide.

 

[CdwJava]

First thing to understand is that there is no such thing as a cookie-cutter "background check". That being said, it is impossible to predict what might or might not show up on a background check. A background check may be as weak as reviewing an application or as extensive as putting feet on the ground to interview friends, family members, neighbors, employers and co-workers.

So, if you have not been fingerprinted, chances are this will not be retained in any state criminal history record. However, the record will be in the possession of the issuing agency and a record will be maintained with the court as well. Court records are public record, so that will be available if someone bothers to look. Because it is public record, it is possible that an online background firm may also obtain this information.

If you prevail at trial, the citation and court appearance still exists, you just get the benefit of a resolution being listed in your favor.

- Carl