My Minor Brother and His Friend Caught Shoplifting
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Virginia
My brother claims it was only his friend that stole items, and the cops were not called to the scene. His mother was called to come pick him up, and the store associate only asked for her license. My mother never signed any papers, but was told my brother would be banned from the store for a year, and she should receive something in the mail from the company's attorney. Shouldn't my mother have been told the dollar amount he was accused of stealing, or had to sign something since he's a minor? What should he expect to happen? What can the company legally do?
Re: My Minor Brother and His Friend Caught Shoplifting
The company will be sending a Civil Demand letter. Make sure it is paid immediately.
If not paid:
- The amount can double.
- The store can file a lawsuit against your parents, and add in all their legal fees, attorney costs, etc.
Bear in mind, the store has 1 year to file Criminal Charges also. And VA is very tough on shoplifters. Your brother got off very easy....
Even though your brother says it was just his friend stealing, your brother is considered an accessory.
Definitely make sure your brother stays out of that store (and all it's other locations) for a year - he can then be charged with Criminal Trespass.