QUESTION
Will I go to jail for a social hosting soon after getting caught?
Asked on Jul 27th, 2013 on Criminal Law - Massachusetts
More details to this question:
I'm 18 years old and I got caught shoplifting a little less than $40 in shorts from a department store about 4 months ago. Security stopped me as I was leaving the store and I was told to come to the back with them. I was given documents to sign such as admitting to shop lifting and that I won't enter the store anymore. I didn't get arrested and paid a civil charge (I think that's what it's called) of $50. But then I a week ago, I received a summons ticket to go to court for social hosting a party with underage alcohol drinkers that happened 2 months ago. If the department store finds out about this, will I go to jail?
4 ANSWERS
No. The department store won't know about the social hosting ticket unless you tell them about it. The store can still decide to file a police report for shoplifting, and the prosecutor has 1 year to press charges for a misdemeanor.
Answered on Aug 02nd, 2013 at 9:59 PM
Thomas Edward Gates
You will not go to jail. In Washington, you have committed a gross misdemeanor with a penalty range of 364 days in jail and $5,000. For your first offense, you will likely be sentenced to attend a consumer awareness class, do community service, pay a fine, pay restitution , stay away from the store, have no further criminal violations and be on probation for one year.
Answered on Aug 02nd, 2013 at 9:59 PM
Petty theft is a crime of moral turpitude, and if convicted you can kiss your career aspirations goodbye.
Answered on Aug 02nd, 2013 at 9:59 PM
Criminal Law Attorney serving Worcester, MA
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Gregory Casale, Attorney at Law
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You could certainly beat jail if you have a good lawyer.
Answered on Aug 02nd, 2013 at 9:58 PM