Shoplifting at Marshalls

**stdnt11** · 03-04-2009, 02:37 AM

Im 23 and got caught shoplifting (first time) at Marshalls in CA. I regret it so much. It sucks because I can no longer shop to any Marshalls. I stole a $39.99 item and got fine for $300. My problem is that i cant pay for the whole amount. I called the number that is in the letter and it turns out that you can do a minimum payment of $50 every month but I cant get a hold of anyone. Its always the operator and no administrator picks up the phone. The operator says that if i leave a message someone will call me back in 3 days. My question is does anyone know Marshall Recovery Department phone number? Should I call the store where I got caught and ask? I dont know what to do! I have to pay for this soon! HELP!

**Mr. Knowitall** · 03-06-2009, 05:44 AM

Did you leave a message?

You can start making payments toward your balance now, and explain yourself in a message.

**LawResearcherMissy** · 03-06-2009, 07:59 AM

Should I call the store where I got caught and ask?

You can, but it's entirely possible that you'll simply get referred to the number you already have. My husband is a retail district manager, and even he doesn't have the direct line to the company recovery department.

Often, this is because the actual recovery department is a third party.

As Mr. K. suggests, you should start making the $50 payments (and if you can pay more right now, do so, it helps.) and explain why in a message.

It looks better for you if you've already made a good faith effort to start paying when you ask for payment arrangements.

**stdnt11** · 05-10-2009, 01:11 AM

They finally got back with me by send me me a reply letter. It took a couple of weeks. I recently paid the whole thing off. First I paid $50, then I paid the rest which is $250. I have another problem, I got accepting to a nursing program and you have to get a background check. This is what it says..
"The background check is via a company selected by the program and must include all names used within the past 7 years, all addresses for the past 7 years, any sexual offense, any abuse of others, and any medical fraud (office of Inspector General)."

It doesnt say anything about shoplifting...Does this mean im off the hook? The background check will show either positive or negative and it will not show how or why. Thats why my teacher recommends to get a background check at a police station or something and pay $50 before paying another $50 for the school's background check. HELP! I just want to know if my background check will be clear since i was involved shoplifting (first time, no cops were involved, and the guy told me it will not be on my record...but i want to be sure)