Hello,

I was in a store and put a sandwich in my pocket. The sandwich was marked down because the expiration date was that same day. I thought better and removed the sandwich and waited in the checkout to pay. I paid less than $4.00 and left the store without incident. About 2 weeks later, a state cop showed up at my residence and gave me a summons to appear in court. I am charged with theft. While driving through the town shortly thereafter, a town cop pulled me over and asked if I "got some paperwork". I said I did and he stated that is why he pulled me over. I feel stalked by the town police now.

I have my credit card statement showing a charge which is for the sandwich. Is this irrelevent because I briefly concealed the sandwich? Am I guilty because I concealed it. (assuming there is a camera tape)

I had a run in about 17 years ago with retail theft of an item. It was in a different county and I plead nolo and paid a fine. If I plead NG to this new charge then I'm afraid it will expose my unfortunate past behavior. I also have a few pot related charges over the years but nothing in 10 years.

I consulted with a local attorney and didn't like his strategy of hiring a PI and entertaining a conspiracy theory. I think that would expose this embarrasing and regretful situation far too much in the small town. He also wanted $5000.00 retainer to take the case to a jury superior court trial. I don't need moral support at that price. It seems like an unjustly sum. Do I stand any chance of having this charge dismissed? The lawyer said without the discovery he really can't tell anything.

Should I just plead guilty to get it over with and possibly keep the lowest possible profile? I would lose my job for sure if got sent to the slammer for this. Now that that attorney knows some of the facts, am I at risk for him running his gums to the DA or whomever he wants? Is there some strategy I can employ on my own to resolve this stupider than stupid is act? Could I qualify for a diversion program? Is there anything I can do to show remorse before the court?

I have allot to offer and am totally ashamed of myself. I have done allot of soulsearching since the charge and wish I had thought before doing that stupid act! Any thoughtful advice is appreciated. Thanks for reading and for your thoughts! P.S. I have learned a lesson from the pain and shame I feel