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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2009
    Posts
    3

    Default Shoplifting/Petty Theft in California

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: California

    My sister and I were caught shoplifting at the mall JC Penney. It was both of ours first offense and we were given a "Citizen's Arrest", I believe. I took $66 worth of merchandise, my sister took over $100. We both signed Admission of Guilt, a Civil Demand, and a Citizen Arrest, which states that the incident will be reported to the Police Department for review and "likely complaint". I know I will have to pay around $200 for monetary damages. My question is how likely is it they will file criminal charges, around how much will I be charged in court, could I have them lessen the charges? The woman said she put down that we put up a struggle, however we went willingly and didn't try to run, but when they first grabbed us from behind without identifying themselves, I pulled my arm away- does that constitute as a struggle?

    I am 18 and my sister is 22 and we were stealing to help her pay her rent with the intention to sell the clothing to a trade store. Should I mention this in court? Should I plead guilty? I cannot afford a lawyer, but I really want to know what to do next. I have a permit and I'm afraid I won't be able to get my license before this is settled and I recently got a job, but have yet to start work will they be notified?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Aug 2009
    Posts
    3

    Default Re: Shoplifting/Petty Theft in California

    Please help, I've been up all night and haven't eaten since what happened.
    I feel like I ruined my life within 20 minutes.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Posts
    1,419

    Default Re: Shoplifting/Petty Theft in California

    I won't mention why you stole I probably won't help at all. If they charge you with shoplighting ask about a diversion program,it's not a joke,relax it's not the end of the world. Hire a lawyer,if you can afford one ask about a legal aide.

    As of now you have no record the job shouldn't be nofited of it. You should plead not guilty and ask for a legal aid and try to arrange a diversion program.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2009
    Posts
    3

    Default Re: Shoplifting/Petty Theft in California

    What is a diversion program? My friend, an ex-LPO told me to plead "No Contest". Is that a good idea?

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Posts
    1,419

    Default Re: Shoplifting/Petty Theft in California

    It is a program that lets you avoid a conviction,you should see if you can get a legal aid. Normally you plead not guilty and then your offered a plea bargain,sometimes diversion can be offered,if it's available. I think in Ca there petty theft,sometimes they lower it to that,which is considered a infraction and not a misdemeanor.

    With diversion,you have to stay out of trouble for a certain amt of time,maybe take a class on shoplifting,then they won't enter a guilty plea,the case gets dismissed if you follow all the steps and rules.

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