Charged with Shoplifting

[chris2012]

I got caught trying to sell back a stolen book from the same University bookstore in seattle. I already have one misdemeanor assault to the fourth degree. Will this charge have any influence on my previous record? Also, I stole about $300-400 worth of books. I ran away when the security tried to catch me. They took my student ID before I ran away and when I later called them they said they will be doing paperwork and will be filing charges. Is what Im facing very serious?

[tc498]

It's serious,the offense works against you but it's helps that it's not a shoplifting offense. Hire a lawyer and to arrange a deal,maybe it can plead to something that sounds better then theft. Even it's just a misdemeanor with probation,it's looks bad having theft and fighting charges on your rap sheet when a company does a background check. This can really screw you up when looking for a decent job or trying to rent an apartment.

Hopefully this is a misdemeanor or can reduced to one. A lot depends on the charge and how strict the local da and judge is. The amount is a felony in some states,idk about where you are. This isn't some hugh charge but it still needs to be taken seriously.

[flyingron]

WHAT IS THE NAME OF YOUR STATE? We ask that for a reason.
The universal answer is when charged (or if contacted by the police for any reason), do nothing until you talk to a lawyer.

[chris2012]

this is in the state of washington. Should I be expecting police to come and get me at my house or should I be expecting a mail with court?

[chris2012]

can someone help me please? I asked this on a different forum and some are saying that the campus police will be notified and they will arrest me during my class hours. Is this true?

[tc498]

I would call a lawyer,they help arrange turning self in and hopefully get you booked then in and out quickly.

[chris2012]

im getting replies but no answer is specific enough. I really need to know the specific cases surrounding my circumstance like whether there is a warrant for my arrest right now and if jail time is more than likely to happen.

[Security Consultant]

How would anybody on this forum know whether or not there is a warrant out for your arrest? Call and find out. Until you are charged and can provide a statute - nobody knows if jail is possible.