Embezzlement

Hey I worked at finishline and they had a loss prevention interview with all the employees. With me they told me if i spill everything i've stolen everything would be easier. Obviously I did and it came about I stole about $190 worth of items. I didn't get arrested because I was honest and the officer just said I was just summon to a court. I guess at the moment I am charged with embezzlement. The officer also said that I shouldn't see this as a life changing experience and just to see it as bad as a speeding ticket. Also I am 18 and I have no criminal record nor have been arrested. I really do not know what to do since this is my first incident and I don't know if to believe the officer that this is as bad as a speeding ticket. Thanks

You should consult with an Attorney as soon as possible

Embezzlement is typically a felony charge, which is vastly more serious than a traffic ticket.

Embezzlement is the normal charge placed on internal theft. Consult with an Attorney regarding yuor options like fighting chrage (not god your already admitted guilt) Plea bargain to lesser charge. You can also dicuss possible diversion if it applies

I might also add that it is written on the ticket Embezzlement - Misdemenor. Not felony if that helps

Laws vary by state.

I'm in virginia and thanks so far for all the replies

Where in Virginia? I have had extensive experience in many courtrooms in VA and can tell you how the local judges are likely to react.

In springfield. my court house is at fairfax. near GMU

Gotcha.

More than likely they will reduce it to a misdemeanor charge (they cannot "drop" felony charges) and allow you to complete community service, restitution, and enter a program where once you complete probation satisfactorily, they will drop the charges against you.

The courthouses in NOVA have more to deal with than embezzlement and you will find the DA more than willing to work with your attorney. They key is, get an attorney who knows the DA and judges, they will get you the best deal with the shortest probation time. If you get a deferred sentence, it will not show up on your record unless you violate the terms of your probation. (IE a background check will come up clean).

When loss prevention obtains a statement from you but they have no evidence of a loss (unless you gave that to them) successful prosecution may be difficult. Give your attorney all of the information. It is important that the retailer can prove up their case for theft.