What to Expect After Getting Caught Shoplifting in Oregon

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Oregon
Age: 18

Never stolen before and do not have any criminal charges, but was with a friend at a Fred Meyer and was handed $19~ in items as we walked out the store. LP took us into room and put our ID into their database and took a picture of us. The guy said"good news, youre not going to jail" and did not call the police, he had us sign a paper that states they will be asking us for civil damages. Which is $250 + cost of items.

What to expect from here?

I've heard that I should not pay it, but also that I should - which course of action is recommended?

Thank you for any information!

First observation - the person you were with was and is not your friend. If you are still hanging out with your so called friend I suggest you dump him or her ASAP.

It would be best to pay it. That way you can put worst of the whole thing behind you. Isn't peace of mind worth $269? You may still encounter issues down the road if you apply for a job in retail, as you may be entered into the National Retail Theft Database. Many retail employers check potential employees through that.

Secondly you signed a statement so they have proof that there was theft involved so they can use that any time they want with the cops whether or not you pay the 250 bucks. It could be a way for them to get restitution prior to you being charged.

You should contact an attorney.

Quote:

---

Quoting nadsab

---

You should contact an attorney.

---

Why? Unless/until OP is charged, why worry about an attorney? A decent attorney is just going to tell them to get in touch if they are charged, there isn't anything else for them to do until charges are filed. Which I think is highly unlikely in this case.