17 Year Old Arrested for Shoplifting

[Bamamke6699]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Alabama

My son was arrested for shoplifting. He was in Dillards and put a 47 Dollar hat in his cargo pocket. He said that he felt bad about it and when he turned around there was a off duty police officer. He was arrested and we picked him up at the police station. Later we find out that he did not walk out of the store or no near the exit. He also was not read his rights. is this legel?

[PandorasBox]

As he put it in his pocket, he concealed the item, which showed his intent to steal it. He didn't have to walk outside. A hat....your son had no logical reason to put this in a pocket. A hat is light-weight item.

I don't know Alabama's law, if your son can be charged as an adult or a minor.

Either way....there will be a letter coming from the store....a Civil Demand. Pay it. If charged as a minor, YOUR credit rating is screwed if you don't pay it.

Court- there will be court costs and fines.

That $47 hat is gonna become a $2000 hat.....Don't blame Dillard's, blame your son who attempted to steal it.

Adult vs Minor...that determines how long your son will have a criminal record for. If charged as an adult, he will want a lawyer ($1500+) to reduce the charge. And he will likely be entered into the National Retail Theft Database. If he plans on financial aid for college...he may have screwed that up.....