Second Shoplifting Offense in Tennessee

[Erikman37130]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Tennessee.

I plead guilty and was convicted of Theft Under 500 in March 2010. I was fined the typical amount and asked to pay court costs and placed on 1 yr probation with 20 hours of community service and offered diversion. Regrettably, I offended once again (with a few weeks) and was given a citation for the same charge. Given the fact that I violated probation with a month of my first offense (guilty twice); I don't know if it's in my best interest to hire an attorney or possibly a public defender to represent me. I am disabled and live on a fixed income. My concern is that the anger of the court for my repeated offense might cost me dearly both financially and also the prospect of possible jail time. Not sure if representation on a second offense will make any difference before the court. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[confused2840]

I am almost in the same boat - The first time - I was innocent but the judge gave me a huge fine and jail time - I am a petite and older woman - it was shocking! you do NOT want to go into a jail for even ONE day. Can you find anyone to barter or pro bono? I may be guilty Finally 7 years later - I was at Walgreens in Florida - while waiting for my dumb presciption, I had asked if I could just buy my cigarettes there? NOPE - so okay.. wait and pay for my medicine - then foune lotions in CLEARANCE - the cost of 2 was less than ONE of the same brand I just bought 1 month prior - so of course Ihad to to buy these and then I picked up a greeting card, tissue etc... on the way to cashier's the Manager stopped me because I had stuff in my purse - I told him just let me pay when I get my cigarettes - he caused a huge scene and 2 other Walgreen people began to verbally abuse me. I was so frighted because of what happened in 2003 - I "almost" ran out... I cannot run because I have a hurt back - but I was going as fast as possible --- right past my cigarettes and cashier's line! -- Finally the 3rd Clerk is rightfully yelling for the store's product -- I was shaking at this time and crying so hard! -- I was in the parking lot in front of my Mercedes and thought I gave her EVERYthing! -- and tried to drive home - knowing all 3 of them would call the police ASAP -- I only pulled over to catch my breath -- when I got home - I quickly applied a 2nd coat to a painting project in my garage then began to unload my items from Staples etc...Walgreens had been my last stop before home... I purposely left my bag in the car so when the police came - they could see for themselves... Guess what? --- I waited and waited - when all FOUR police cars arrived - I wanted to show them my receipts! -- I was not crying so much now... and I even dumped my purse which had a remaining piece of gift paper and the 2nd bottle of lotion! Am I guilty -- I have not slept in 3 nights -- I have raised 2 sons all by myself - the eldest graduated from Harvard and the 2nd son is fully scholarshiped -- I am a good person, but even I am having a hard time with my kind of luck

[PandorasBox]

Unfortunately, you should NEVER had placed those items in your purse. That is called CONCEALMENT and in many states, is enough to show intent to steal.