Charge of 3rd Degree Theft in State of Washington
My question involves criminal law for the state of: WA
I was shopping and since I didn’t find a cart initially had put stuff in a bag in a department store in WA . I had it on my shoulder in plain sight all the time and absent mindedly I walked out of the store and had put items I was shopping for in a bag I wanted to buy and forgot to pay.. The security caught up with me as soon as I stepped out and said I hadn’t paid. I IMMEDIATELY SAID I intended to pay and they escorted me back in. I thought they were taking me to a cash register but instead they took me into a security room. I kept saying I would pay repeatedly and that it was a mistake. Instead they ignored me and said I was stealing and made a report. They searched all my belongings in which they found nothing… none of their property concealed. They tried to collect all the information possible from me like what do I do, where and what my spouse works as etc. They refused to allow me to use my phone even when it rang twice they refused to allow me to pick it up. Then they called the cops. Now I have been charged with 3rd degree theft and they said I would get some notification in the mail and would have to appear in court. It was all a harrowing experience and I WAS IN SHOCK.
I have never had any criminal charge of any sort ever and am totally distressed. What do I do now? I am working on getting a lawyer. I did some research and found out about Diversion and Compromise of Misdemeanor. How do these options work? How do I get this off my record now that I have a report in my name?
Re: Charge of 3rd Degree Theft in State of Washington
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How do I get this off my record now that I have a report in my name?
It might not come off your record.
You're taking the right steps by seeking counsel. S/he will be able to explain the procedures for Diversion or Compromise of Misdemeanor as they apply to your situation. Asking for this doesn't mean you'll get it, but it's more likely than not.