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  1. #1

    Default Caught Shoplifting: Civil Demand

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: Massachusetts

    Last week, a friend and I (both 17) were apprehended for shoplifting outside of a retail store. It was probably the stupidest decision we ever made, and are both deeply paranoid concerning the consequences. We each took a pair of socks from a $7.00 pack of four and put them in our pockets. We also made purchases at the store... don't ask why, we are still beating ourselves up over this stupid decision.

    Anyways, we were stopped by the LP associate and were taken to the back of the store. We were told the cops were called, but they were not. The guy took our ID's and asked us some questions, as well as having us sign the documents. He told us that he was going to go easy on us, because we were cooperating. He also told us that we may receive a civil demand letter, but he mentioned twice that we most likely wouldn't. As we were leaving, a woman told us that he went real easy on us and that we were really lucky. I know for a fact that we were after spending a solid 5 hours searching the topic online since then.

    Anyways, I have a few questions...

    First, is there a possibility that we won't receive a civil demand letter at all? If we do, which we assume we will, do you have any idea or estimate as to how much it may be? (We read in another thread on this forum that in a very similar situation, although at an amusement park, the CD was $150)

    Second, how often are people charged with a law suit if there are no cops involved in the apprehension? Is there a likelihood that we may still be summoned to court?

    Thank you very much for your time and any answers/information you may have.

  2. #2
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    Default Re: Caught Shoplifting: Civil Demand

    First, is there a possibility that we won't receive a civil demand letter at all?
    I wouldn't count on it.
    If we do, which we assume we will, do you have any idea or estimate as to how much it may be? (We read in another thread on this forum that in a very similar situation, although at an amusement park, the CD was $150)
    Massachusetts law allows for recovery of up to $500 PLUS the retail value of the stolen items.

    How much the store will demand is up to the store. Some stores use a graduated scale based on item value, some just demand the maximum as a matter of policy.

    Second, how often are people charged with a law suit if there are no cops involved in the apprehension? Is there a likelihood that we may still be summoned to court?
    It's unlikely that you'll be dragged into court over a pair of socks. But if you fail to pay the Civil Demand, expect the store to sue you.

  3. #3

    Default Re: Caught Shoplifting: Civil Demand

    Thank you very much. However, I would still really like an estimate, even if you are just ballparking. The store was Marshalls, if that helps at all. Thanks in advance.

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