Petit Larceny in Oklahoma

[torres]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: oklahoma

I was arrested for petit larceny (by complaint) for stealing an 18 pack of beer from a convenience store. I was uncertain with what the "by complaint" part meant on my ticket, as the friend who was with me was charged with petit larceny but not by complaint.

Also, i was wondering of the possible penalties for such a crime, as the merchandise stole was one item amounting to around $14.00. I have only 2 tickets (minor in possession of alcohol and supplying a place for minors to consume) but only the MIP is on record.

I am 22 years old and a college student and have never been arrested before and have only those 2 minor tickets, but I am terrified of the possibility of jail time. Realizing how stupid this is considering i had around 100 dollars in my pocket at the time doesn't help.

I feel like probation, community service, and a fine are inevitable, but if any information on whether or not this merits jail time is available i would be eternally grateful.

Thanks so much to anyone who can provide any sort of information.

[Mr. Knowitall]

With three alcohol offenses by the age of 22, you're likely to have the judge pretty much convinced that you have an alcohol problem before you even open your mouth. You're a college student, so make an appointment with your college's counseling service about a possible alcohol problem, so you can either start getting treatment or have a counselor who can write a letter to the court indicting that you don't have an alcohol problem.

There's a good chance the judge will ask you, "You're of age, and you had cash in your pocket, so why were you stealing this beer?" I'm not sure what your answer would be.

I believe the penalty for petit larceny in Oklahama is a maximum of six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500 (although court assessments can increase that amount beyond the fine).