QUESTION
How can I go about dropping a shoplifting charge?
Asked on Mar 29th, 2014 on Criminal Law - Missouri
More details to this question:
I went through the Uscan at Kroger and somehow or another forgot to scan a bag of cat food. I was stopped very forcefully by their loss prevention before I exited the store. One of the loss prevention took the cart and shoved it back in to my stomach. I went with them. They tried to make me sign a statement which I refused and they began to yell at me. When the police came he issues me a citation for theft. The value was 22 dollars. I don't have a lot of money but I have enough that I can afford to pay for cat food.
5 ANSWERS
Michael J. Breczinski
You have to get a lawyer and fight the charge. Theft involves an intent to steal. You can't accidentally shoplift.
Answered on Apr 02nd, 2014 at 8:25 PM
Don't confuse the civil case between you and the store with the criminal case in court between you and the state. Signing the papers was foolish enough, and paying the civil demand will make you look even more guilty. Petty theft is a crime of moral turpitude, and if convicted you can kiss your career aspirations goodbye. Hire a lawyer before you get duped into a plea you will regret for life.
Answered on Apr 01st, 2014 at 12:52 PM
James Edward Smith
Go to trial or seek diversion.
Answered on Apr 01st, 2014 at 12:51 PM
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It sounds like you have some legitimate defenses. You need to get the prosecutor to take a good look at this. I would strongly urge you to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney in your area that regularly handles retail fraud or shoplifting charges. If you cannot afford an attorney ask the court to appoint you want. The worst thing you can do is go without representation.
Answered on Apr 01st, 2014 at 12:51 PM
You will need to hire an attorney to represent you in court if you want to keep from having a shoplifting conviction on your criminal record.
Answered on Apr 01st, 2014 at 12:51 PM