Shoplifting From Walmart

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Quoting Security Consultant

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One thing about Virgina; the felony threshold is $200 and above. That may be the lowest is the U.S.

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Two states have a felony threshold of $150. Virginia has the next lowest at $200. In Virginia, three petty thefts (less than $200) equal a felony.

In Virginia, you are not allowed to receive diversion for theft related offenses. Judges must impose sentences relative to the guidelines which typically means a few days in jail and a fine. That matter is being appealed in the Virginia Supreme Court (it may have been already I am not sure), so have your lawyer postpone the case until that matter is heard by the courts and maybe you can get diversion vs a jail sentence.

Hi all. I was caught shoplifting today for a first time offense from a Wal-Mart. I'm 22 years old and a student. Very stupid, but the economy is tough right now. All in all, it totaled about $40, mostly groceries. I just want to get a few things straightened out, so some information would be very nice.

I tried to run and was stopped, which was very stupid and the police were called. I signed the banned from Wal-Mart form and the employees gave me the various statues and things, took down my information, but the police didn't do anything. Aside from trying to run, I was very cooperative and I think the police understood why it happened. I was never given a summons nor did I sign any legal documents for the police. I was never placed in handcuffs nor was I fingerprinted. I don't even think the officers wrote down my information.

I don't know the law well, so would the charges be civil or criminal? The officers told me that I would receive a subpoena, but I just don't know what that means legally, other than that I must show up to court. The girl at Wal-Mart said most folks caught for the first time get community service or a fine, but how can I be sure that I'm not facing both civil and criminal charges? I'm sure I'll have more questions in a bit.