Retail Fraud in Michigan (Sears)

[aaron]

Let me ask then, when is it the case where someone is found guilty of 2nd degree retail fraud and only receives a fine?

The fact that a defendant could be sentenced only to a fine doesn't make it at all probable.

[chuckycheese]

I think it's far fetched to think that Sears or any other organization can consistantly convince a variety of judges to hand down sentences based upon their wishes. I don't believe it!

[Clair Bonner]

I think it's far fetched to think that Sears or any other organization can consistantly convince a variety of judges to hand down sentences based upon their wishes. I don't believe it!

You're right. But nobody said that either. Sears would only send a rep to discuss the case and potential sentencing with the Prosecutor or ADA. Sometimes it worked, depending upon the gravity of the offense. The prosecutor would push for a certain sentence beyond just "community service" and a "fine." We never ran into that with any other store. Ultimately, of course, sentencing was up to the judge.

The other stores would just send their report and a tape, if one existed. But, Sears would actually make a personal appearance and have a discussion.

[Guilty Or Not Guilty]

I use to live in the downriver area. I went to the Sears store a lot. I noticed before how the LP were arresting someone for stealing. When I was a LP across the street at (formerly Perry Drugs) Rite Aid a customer told me he got caught at Sears for stealing some tools. That is a place that is always alert for shoplifters.

Crow, I bet your friend will get no jail time. If your friend does, it will be little time. This is because Wayne County jail is always full. The felons are the ones who have to spend more time in county jail. The ones who commited a misdemeanor get out quicker than ordered.

[chuckycheese]

You're right. But nobody said that either. Sears would only send a rep to discuss the case and potential sentencing with the Prosecutor or ADA. Sometimes it worked, depending upon the gravity of the offense. The prosecutor would push for a certain sentence beyond just "community service" and a "fine." We never ran into that with any other store. Ultimately, of course, sentencing was up to the judge.

The other stores would just send their report and a tape, if one existed. But, Sears would actually make a personal appearance and have a discussion.

I feel certain that prosecutors and judges have a very good understanding of what shoplifting is without being tutored by Sears' representatives. I would also doubt that Sears has any less shoplifters than other retail stores. I've never seen any statistics comparing retail theft among retail stores; have you? I'm sure you believe everything you're saying but I think it's a myth.

[crow]

It turned out the judge gave him 6 months probation and must take an Economic Crime Class for shoplifters. He's also banned from K-Mart and Sears for those 6 months.

No jail.

[gooch82]

Crow,

So your friend received no conviction or record? Did he receive some sort of diversion program and then after successfully completing the probation will his charges be dropped? Please let me know. Thank you