Hi! State Maryland.
I opened the merchandise in the store. Then I placed it in my pocket. I didn't want to steal it, yet i was accused of doing so. I was still in the store. Until some store employees held me, called cops, etc. Is this considered shoplifting? I didn't want to steal it. Is there a law that states once you open the item and put it in your pocket is considered shoplifting?
The item's price was in upper 100's.
I guess an analogy would be that one took a bottle of water from the shelf in the store, opened it and started drinking it.. But the key to it is that one hasn't left the store yet. Maybe your intentions were to purchase it - even if it was opened.
Thanks in advance!
