
Quoting
Chris Smith
I feel like the dumbest person in the world. Here's what happened.
About 6 months ago I was on pain medication for my knee and was really screwed up in the head. I was food shopping at Shoprite in NY and opened a bottle of Aleve (pain killer) and swallowed a few and inadvertently put the bottle in my pocket. I paid for my goceries and walked out and security hauled me in and wrote me up for the bottle of Aleve. I tried to explain I was on medication and not thinking straight but they didn't want to hear it. Shoprite's corporate law firm sent me a letter and I paid a $75.00 fine.
A few days ago I was shopping at the same Shoprite and was checking out at the self checkout register and honestly didn't see an item (worth $9.00) in the very front section of my cart. I accidently placed a bag on top of it, paid for my goods and left the store. In the parking lot, security approached me and asked if I paid for everything in my cart. I said I think so, showed them my receipt and the goods in my cart. I then discovered the unpaid item under one of my bags at the very front of the cart and apologized but they didn't want to hear it. They wrote me up AGAIN, made me sign and sent me on my way with no clue as to what is going to happen.
I'm totally responsible for my actions, however, BOTH times were innocent mistakes. I'm an upstanding member of my community, a family man and a combat Veteran as well and don't want a criminal record. Should wait till I hear from the Shoprite corporate office or should I consult a criminal attorney now? What are the penalties involved and what are the odds I will be charged with a crime? I seem to remember the first time, Shoprite security said something about if I'm caught again I would be banned from the store.
Any input and or adivice would be greatly appreciated.