Caught Stealing and Charged with Misdemeanor Theft
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Ohio
I was caught taking about $26 worth of merchandise from a Wal-Mart store. I was taken into the LP's office, where I returned the items and identified myself. Police were called and I was arrested, then released about an hour later. The only information I gave to the police regarding the incident was a written statement, basically saying how sorry I am that this happened. I was formally charged with Theft, a first-degree misdemeanor, my first and hopefully last offence. My court date is in a week. I was also given a note that explained the civil demands process. I can either wait for a letter or call a number to settle it quickly with Wal-Mart's collections firm.
Where do I go from here? Do I start looking for a Public Defender? Do I go ahead and pay the civil demands?
Thanks.
Re: Caught Stealing and Charged with Misdemeanor Theft
If you cannot afford an attorney one will be provided to you free of charge......you don't mention your age which could have some bearing on the outcome - if you admitted the theft on paper, (there may also have you on video) looks like there's not much an attorney can do but work out a plea arrangement, if you're a youthful offender (under 21) they might put you on some kind of probation......don't do it again or eventually you'll wind up in a cage and have to eat fried baloney with Jello on top for dinner.
Re: Caught Stealing and Charged with Misdemeanor Theft
See the two stickies at the top of this forum, "Advice to Shoplifters" and "Consequences of Shoplifting."