My question involves criminal law for the state of: Washington
My brother was arrested on Friday the 28th while shoplifting at Walmart. I have not been able to speak with him while he is in jail, so I don't know what he stole - but according to the jail website - he is being charged with RCW 9A.56.360
Retail theft with extenuating circumstances, which is a class C felony. He is also being charged with a Failure to Appear on a previous DWI case he had. My parents and I are feeling completely lost because we have no clue what is going on or what is going to happen. He is being held on $10,000 bail and my parents will not bail him out because he is addicted to prescription drugs, lost his job earlier this year due to it and has gotten him self into this situation. I should also point out he is 31 years old - so a little too old for parents to help.
My questions are: how likely is it that he will get sentenced to more jail time / prison? His jury trial is set for March 23rd, should we assume he will be in jail until then as long as no one bails him out? What sort of punishment is he facing with a felony shoplifting compounded with a failure to appear charge? Also, how much merchandise does someone have to steal for it to be considered a felony versus a misdemeanor?
Because of his drug addiction and low moral standards - everyone seems to say that jail will be the best thing for him. Any thoughts on that? He's my older brother and I am worried sick about him in jail.
Thank you![]()

