Burglary felony at Macys in Los Angeles County
this happened about 4 weeks ago. i went to a macys and took some undershirts and boxers about 370 dollars worth on two trips but was caught by lp the second time when leaving the store. my question is i paid 2,000 dollars for a bail agency to bail me for 20,000 because the police said they had me for a burglary felony charge but said that it would be probably reduced to a misdemeanor because it was my first time and it was less than 400 dollars. i wonder why in the first place i had to pay that much to be bailed and why i get some civil notice that i have to pay 295 dollars when they already got the merchandise back. this is ridiculous and plus the amount for attorneys is at least 2,000 dollars i can't afford it with my income. so i am going to get a public defender and hope that on my court date i get a reduction of charges because its ridiculous how much money they want from me. also, i called the police and they said they would be filing this as a misdemeanor so i have to wait on my court date for the actual charges. this is in california and i just wanted your input guys.
Re: burglary felony at macys in los angeles county
The booking charge was for burglary because the elements of that offense were met. Apparently they felt that you entered the store with the intent to commit the crime - that's second degree burglary in CA.
This is often dropped to misdemeanor theft/shoplifting by the DA, but not always.
The civil demand is perfectly permissable under the law and if you choose not to pay it they can sue you in court for the amount or more. It is seperate from any criminal fines or penalties you will have to pay. And you also have to pay it even if they get the merchandise back. The store has a right to seek compensation fro the property, their time, re-stocking, etc. You're lucky - they COULD have charged up to $500, I believe.
Consider this a very expensive lesson and don't do it again. Oh, and aexpect to spend at least one day in jail ... that's because that time served will make ANY future theft (even of a stick of gum) a potentially felony offense.
- Carl