Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft professional in MN caught first time- lots of ????

[middleagema]

I'm a professional, live in Minnesota and just got caught for the first time shoplifting $92 worth of things at a grocery store. One item was in the cart, but not in my purse. I was taken to a back room and was told to take the things out of my purse. They had me sign a statement saying I took these items. At first I said I didn't want to sign and they wrote "refused to sign" and the LP guy told me this would be worse for me because I didn't cooperate. I asked if I was required to sign it and if it would be better for me, but he said he couldn't tell me what to do.

The LP asked me why I did this and I rambled on how I just got divorced, hate my life and I'm depressed (which is true). They took pictures of me and the stuff I took. The police were called and they gave me a ticket. I was cooperative and told the truth throughout. He asked me why I did this and I told him Christmas is coming and I wanted to get some things for my kids. I was told that I would be mailed a notice about when the court date will be. I didn't have ID with me either.

I plan on getting an attorney, but I have some questions:
Is this considered an arrest? Was signing that itemized list a confession of guilt? How could I now plead "not guilty?" Will anything I said be used against me? Will the LP from the store and/or their attorney show up at court? Will they show videos of me stealing?

My biggest fear is that neighbors and clients will find out. Is there a way to keep this out of the paper?

Since the value of the items was less than $500, I could face $1000 and/or 90 days in jail. Does the judge care if I'm a single parent?

I feel so desperate and have thought about changing my name (back to my maiden) or at least my address so I won't be identified by clients. If I did this, would my new address and name be used?

I've heard about diversion programs and shoplifting courses. Does that help this stay off my record? How do I find out about them?

I know this was really stupid and I'm really scared.

 

[thelawjournal]

Is this considered an arrest?Yes it was a citizen's arrest Was signing that itemized list a confession of guilt?Somewhat yes but fact you had items was enough without document How could I now plead "not guilty?"By pleading not guilty and giving your Attorney time to work out plea deal Will anything I said be used against me?Possibly Will the LP from the store and/or their attorney show up at court?Probably Will they show videos of me stealing?If need be yes

My biggest fear is that neighbors and clients will find out. Is there a way to keep this out of the paper? No

Since the value of the items was less than $500, I could face $1000 and/or 90 days in jail. Does the judge care if I'm a single parent?Judge cares about remorse more than anything. However considering your not a carer criminal you should be ok

I feel so desperate and have thought about changing my name (back to my maiden) or at least my address so I won't be identified by clients. If I did this, would my new address and name be used?This would not be wise. Talk to your Attorney about it

I've heard about diversion programs and shoplifting courses. Does that help this stay off my record? How do I find out about them?
Talk to your Attorney about Diversion (you should qualify) If your interested in an Anti Shoplifting course I recommend one offered by NASP

 

[StoreDetectiveVet]

Doing security in MN, I will say sometimes the local paper will post police reports in their weekly issues.
For Example:
THEFT 11/2/09 Jane Sue Doe was arrested for theft of merhcandise totlaing $92 from Store X.

If this happens your friends, neighbors, family and clients will see it. Not trying to scare you, just prepare you just in case it happens.