My son has been caught shoplifting at a grocery store. He exited the store and then returned minutes laterwith stolen merchandise from that store in his bag, to wait in the lobby for his bus.
It was $12-$15 worth of frozen vegetarian sandwhich patties (Boca, GardenBurger).
He was arrested, and was told he would soon recieve a letter in the mail regarding the date of his court appearance.
What I was wondering, is if this is a substantial circumstance to attempt a legal diversion - if he was to write a formal apology, volunteer at the buisness or in the community, possibly this event may not land on his criminal record.
My second question is, how should I go about doing this? Whom should I contact, and how should I conduct myself?
And, should have he been read his rights upon arrest?
If any of these question could be answered I would greatly appreciate it. I endless ponder what should overtake someone to sit at this Forum to continuously aid in the legal struggles of others.
If only the world could embrace such a passion for each other as I see here on this forum.
Thanks,
Sandra.

