Shoplifting At A Department Store in Canada

[Karenx]

This incident occurred a long time ago, in 1999. I realize that Canadian laws might be quite different from US', however I'm very desperate for any advice or info, it would be very much appreciated if I can get any help =(. It happened in 1999 a few months after I turned 18. A friend and I were shopping at a department store, I saw a handbag (cost around $80 CAD) and was thinking about purchasing it. We carried it to the 2nd floor, where I was browsing around. My friend was just sitting at a chair on his own, with the bag with him. After selecting a few pieces of clothings that I'm going to try on, I returned to him and told him I'm going in the fitting room. He handed me the bag and said it was already paid for, and I saw that the tag was removed, I didn't think too much (and it was absolutely dumb of me). Because of the fact that I'm moving out of the province in the next few days, I assumed it was a gift. I took the handbag, and the few clothings into the fitting-room. I've decided not the buy any and exited the fitting room (didn't take any clothing) with my original handbag placed inside the "new" one. Still, I was dumb enough and didn't think much. My friend and I literally walked out of the store, then stopped by their security.

By the time I realize this bag hasn't been paid for and I was actually the one "holding" it, they called the police, and we were taken to a nearby police office, photo'ed and fingerprinted. I went to by first appearance (I had to travel across provinces to make the appearence), but somehow I was re-scheduled to another date where I really cannot make. This incident was left unattended, partially because I'm really scared, sorry, and shamed. Another reason was that I was afraid my friend would blame it on me while I was unable to appear for the next appearence. Over time I've become extremely worried, that somehow that incident will affect my future opportunities. My parents were not aware of that happening. I'm very lost, and I don't know who I can talk to or consult at this point. Any any help or advice would be very appreciated. Thanks!

[PaulE]

If you moved to another area and failed to show for court, if Canada is anything like the USA there will probably be a warrant for you. I'd suggest you check with a lawyer.

[chuckycheese]

No offense, but I doubt there is a single judge in Canada (or the rest of the world) that would ever believe your story. You'd better run it by your lawyer before you consider telling it in court.

[Karenx]

Thank you for the feedback. I understand it was very stupid overall, and I was totally my own mistake for incident itself, in addition to not dealing with it for so long. I'm honestly not making this up, and try to get away from intending to steal. I'm not sure if I can afford a lawyer, but from reading the forum and other's cases, I think it may be the best idea and try to first consult a lawyer. Any additional feelback or advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you again.

[chuckycheese]

You can, no doubt, find an attorney that will meet with you for little or no fee and then decide how to proceed based upon his recommendations. I think after you meet with an attorney, it will become fairly clear on the best way to go forward.