Unintentional Shoplifting, No Police Called

[Kimbx]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: pa

I went to Walmart with my 2 kids, 2 and 11months. I parked at the furthest exit as I normally do. There were no carts to be found except for one belonging to the store next door. So I used that as I've done before. Put my infant in his Carseat in the back of the cart. My 2 y.o in the front. We went shopping. Got diapers and wipes put them under the cart. As we shopped some more my daughter threw a fit and starting stuff she. Could reach. I cleaned it up and we walked away. I browsed some more and ultimately checked out. As I walked out I was approached by 3 LP. They told me to follow them. I immediately questioned them as to why. They said I walked out without paying for
Merchandise. Low and behold burrowed next to the Carseat very well hidden were items I assumed my daughter got a hold Of. I cooperated and tried to explain what happened. They said that they hear excuses all the time and unfortunately they can't agknowledge my story. Which I get. They took my info, ss, phone number and said since I cooperated they wouldn't prosecute an it would be between us. I would also get a civil demand letter. I am mortified. Embarrassed have been crying, haven't slept, ate or even told my husband. Which I will. I've never done anything like this nor ever was in trouble before. If I pay will this just go away? I was also told to "try and stay away from that Walmart but never signed a banned letter. I shop at sam's club a lot I'm assuming I'm banned from there as well? What will be said in the civil demand letter?

[blackbird345]

It's a tough situation to deal with if it wasn't your fault, but it's also a very common excuse to blame the theft on a child. The LPs knew about the items hidden by the car seat because they saw someone put them there either in person or via camera. Only you and them know the truth of what happened.

Even if you did not sign a trespass acknowledgment, stay away from Walmart and Walmart properties for awhile (several years at least). A verbal demand to stay away is enforceable as well--it's just harder to establish.

[bam!]

Walmart does not generally formally trespass shoplifters from their stores. They just don't do it. Trepass is a waste for retailers. Stop stealing and try to stay on the straight and narrow.