Results 1 to 4 of 4
  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jul 2009
    Posts
    1

    Default Diversion for Shoplifting

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: Minnesota

    I got caught shoplifting a couple of items that total a bit over $7 from a grocery store. I went in for some food items and got a bad idea. When I was outside on my way to my car I got confronted by a couple of the LP members. I hesitantly followed them back inside and then tried to run, but they caught me. They took me to the room and got my info and stuff. I signed a letter about the civil demand. Then the cop got there and they were filling out their stuff. I got a citation for statute "609.52 sl" and the cop gave me a breathalizer before he let me go, I blew a .05.

    This will be my first offense of any kind of criminal charge.
    I talked to a lawyer and he said that I should go in early on the court date which is Aug. 3 2009 and get a public defender, plead not guilty and try to get diversion because theft is something you really don't want on your record.

    I have a few questions, first when the LP members brought me into the room they patted me down and emptied my pockets before the cop got there, I was wondering if this was legal because I thought that they only have the right to detain you until the police get there.

    Second, what exactly is a diversion program like, how should I go about trying to get it, and what are the odds that I will on my first offense.

    Third, What are the chances of having to serve jail time. I can't forsee them sending me to jail on a first offense for less than 10 bucks, but i dunno.

    Any usefull information will be greatly appreciated.

  2. #2

    Default Re: Diversion

    everyone i personally know who has been arrested for shoplifting has been granted a diversion... however i'm not saying its guaranteed... and a diversion for shoplifting would most likely be a class or community service then staying out of trouble for 6 months or a year, something along those lines, then the charges are dismissed

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    Behind a Desk
    Posts
    98,846

    Default Re: Diversion

    It's far from guaranteed. The availability of diversion programs varies by state and county, and in many counties around the nation there is no diversion program for shoplifters.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Posts
    1,419

    Default Re: Diversion

    It's probably avabile in your county if the lawyer told you about it,do as the lawyer says and request a legal aid. Then see what he can do for you.They should let you in but it isn't certain.

    1. Sponsored Links
       

Similar Threads

  1. Probation and Parole: What Happens in a Diversion Program for Shoplifting
    By Aliciasophia in forum Probation, Parole and Incarceration
    Replies: 1
    Last Post: 01-05-2013, 11:42 AM
  2. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Shoplifting Diversion Option
    By Thatsnoteasy in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 06-23-2010, 07:33 AM
  3. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Caught Shoplifting While on Diversion
    By mrrpg2 in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 09-08-2008, 09:38 PM
  4. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Shoplifting diversion programs
    By californiagirl in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 09-02-2006, 09:58 AM
  5. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Shoplifting and Diversion Programs
    By bethey2024 in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 04-05-2005, 04:25 PM
 
 
Sponsored Links

Legal Help, Information and Resources