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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    Ohio
    Posts
    6

    Default Caught shoplifting for the first time

    I got caught shoplifting at Meijer in Ohio. The LP took me to the back office and had me signed a paper that I did so and took my pictures. I was co-operative even though the LP said I wasn't.

    Then the LP called the police, we went to the police station where they took my fingerprints and picture and they gave a citation. The court in 10 days and I'm so scared because I'm an international student here in the US and I know nothing about the law here. Beside I have a schoolarship I don't want to lose it. the merchandise value is $45.

    We have a student legal service at the university but I'm afraid to use because I don't know if they keep the information confidential or they share it with the international office or even with the place I work at on campus. Will this effect my visa, status, or anything related for my stay in the US or the ability to apply for a new visa??

    Anyone has any idea about the student legal service, and the court process? will they send me to prison? I never done that before, I don't even have a speed ticket or any problem before?

    I know I asked a lot of questions, but I know nothing about the law here and I'm so scared and really regret what I did.
    Thanks.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Nov 2005
    Location
    Seattle, Wa.
    Posts
    529

    Default

    Scared, you're NOT going to prison so relax a little. I don't know the state laws you were arrested under but it's probably a minor offense for theft. Legal services are like doctors, they can't discuss the case with anybody. Get an appointment and see where you stand, it won't be as bad as you think.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    Ohio
    Posts
    6

    Default

    Thanks PaulE, I really can't even sleep. In the citation, it is mentioned as follows: "In violation of section 131.08" I check this section out and it came as Criminal mischief with an imprisonment and/or fine of 60 days and $500.

    I thought it was shoplifting and in this case I don't go to jail and I just pay fine of $100. I still don't understand the difference, but at least I can try the legal servieces.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Nov 2005
    Location
    Seattle, Wa.
    Posts
    529

    Default

    What you found might be the maximum sentence, you'll know better after talking to someone.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    Ohio
    Posts
    6

    Default

    Thanks PaulE again. I hope they don't go with the maximum all the time.
    I talked to the legal servieces and they said they keep everything confidential. I'm still scared because they will post the citations on the newspaper and my boss may find out and terminate my work.
    Can I talk to the police station or the newspaper and ask not to post the information?

    I still can't sleep and any help would really be appreciated.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Nov 2005
    Location
    Seattle, Wa.
    Posts
    529

    Default

    It probably wouldn't be a good idea to call the police or the papers about it, not to mention they won't care. As far as the papers go, it's a matter of public record if they publish it there's not much you can do about it. Sorry I can't be more positive about it.....it'll all work out.

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