Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Stole from a well-known retail store. first offense...

[imscared]

I'm so terrified--yesterday I was in a Massachusetts store and I attempted to steal $246 worth of stuff. That's only $4 from being a felony, right? I didn't mean for it to get out of hand...I wasn't even going to do it. I'm ashamed of myself and my actions...I've never done anything this reckless before. I don't know what to do, I don't know how to tell my parents without them practically disowning me....but I need their help.

I take full responsibility for my actions. I was caught and signed some paperwork saying I was guilty, and then a police officer came and yelled at me, but was told not to arrest me by someone else. I was so thankful--but he said "Don't thank me, I would have arrested you."

Should I have gotten copies of the paperwork? The lady that talked to me told me I was banned from the store--forever? A guy wrote a report...will I be fined less because they got all of the merchandise back?

I am so terrified. I have never done this before in my life. Is my life going to be ruined? I haven't gone to court yet--what will happen to me? What will I be charged with, and what is my likely sentence? I'm in college in another state....how would community service work out? If my dad is a former policeman and government agent, will they sympathize? I am 18 years old, in college....and I AM SO SCARED. Can someone help me with all of my questions?

 

[thelawjournal]

The Civil fine you ask about is not equal to value of merchandise in fact it has little to do with that. Depending on your states laws on Civil Demand your Civil fine will be between $400.00 to $1000.00. You need to find a Lawyer to discuss defense plea options for your county. Normally I woould suggest Diversion but with you so close to felony level that might not be possible so ask. many Attorneys offer free consultations so take them all up on it. Arm yourself with knowledge. That way if you dont hire one and go with public defender you will have some idea of what to ask about. I would also suggest you enroll in an Anti shoplfiting course. This will surely please Judge and could help in getting reduced sentence. I recommend the course offered by NASP.

 

[Guest]

I am so terrified. I have never done this before in my life. Is my life going to be ruined?Maybe a criminal conviction can get in the way of your getting certain jobs, loans , apartments etc I haven't gone to court yet--what will happen to me?You will hear the charges against you and be asked what you plead What will I be charged with, and what is my likely sentence?That is up to DA I'm in college in another state....how would community service work out? If my dad is a former policeman and government agent, will they sympathize?If you mean will you be treated different because of this? I hope not that woud be unfair I am 18 years old, in college....and I AM SO SCARED. Can someone help me with all of my questions?

If your on a scholarship a conviction can cost you your scholarship