Shoplifting in Wal-Mart in Virginia
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Virginia
Hi,
I was caught shoplifting with a friend. I took $20 worth of trading cards and my friend stole a $12 watch. I have read that Wal-Mart will not prosecute if the value of the goods stolen is under $25, but the Loss Prevention officer mentioned that he could combine the values together in order to prosecute us, then he trailed off and was contemplating whether he should do that or not.
I am 18 and my friend is 17. My friends dad spoke with my parents (who I informed of what happened as soon as I came home) and said that Wal-Mart would not be pressing any charges for either of us. I called and tried to contact a store managed in order to schedule an apology in person, but I was told that they would call me back.
What will happen now? Will I receive one of the civil demand letters in the mail? Or is there any chance that they just completely let us go? Was it a good idea calling and asking to apologize? Will anything go on my criminal record?
I am so shaken right now, I know what I did was very wrong and it was on an impulse, I regret it immensely and I hope everything is okay. Both of my parents are very old and neither of them work so additional financial hardship would not be very good for us.
I wished I had apologized right then and there to the Loss Prevention officers as well as to the manager. I hope I didn't make a mistake in calling them.
Re: Shoplifting in Wal-Mart in Virginia
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What will happen now?
My crystal ball is in the repair shop, can't help there.
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Will I receive one of the civil demand letters in the mail?
Its likely.
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Or is there any chance that they just completely let us go?
Its possible. Maybe he was feeling Santa-like.
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Was it a good idea calling and asking to apologize?
NO, NO and NO. If you feel truely compelled send a letter. Get his name and address it to him. You don't want to draw undue attention. Lay low on the radar. Just a simple thank you note will do.
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Will anything go on my criminal record?
If the store changes their mind and decides to prosecute you then you will have a criminal record, but your clean for now. Learn your lesson.
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I am so shaken right now, I know what I did was very wrong and it was on an impulse, I regret it immensely and I hope everything is okay. Both of my parents are very old and neither of them work so additional financial hardship would not be very good for us.
What is very old? Just curious.
Don't steal!