Shoplifting

[Meghan]

Jurisdiction

Massachusetts

Today, I was caught in a store at a mall stealing an item only $7.99. I am 19 and they called mall security and made me give them my information and banned me from the mall for 6 months. They gave me a form describing my "civil theft" and told me I will get a fine sent to me in the mail that I will have to pay. I tried researching online and a lot of people said to ignore the fine because they usually won't pursue it... What should I do? And will this show up on my criminal record?

 

[shrinkmaster]

Your going to get a variety of answers. Its your choice. I am a Retail Theft consultant and answer questions like yours daily. If you ignore this state law you risk several consequences all long term. Might they ignore it? Yes but again its your call take the risk or dont. Here are some links that might be helpful

A recent writing of mine - Parent Nook Forums

Civil Recovery | | TheLaw.com

 

[Betty3]

Since no police were called, it shouldn't show up on your "criminal record". However; if the store is a member of a retail theft database, it could have been reported to the database & show up there. Other member companies can check this database.

 

[army judge]

Today, I was caught in a store at a mall stealing an item only $7.99. I am 19 and they called mall security and made me give them my information and banned me from the mall for 6 months. They gave me a form describing my "civil theft" and told me I will get a fine sent to me in the mail that I will have to pay. I tried researching online and a lot of people said to ignore the fine because they usually won't pursue it... What should I do? And will this show up on my criminal record?

You may receive what is called a "civil demand".
It is simply a demand from the merchant's agent for you to pay XXX dollars.
It isn't a fine, as only a court can assess you a fine after you plead guilty or adjudged to be guilty.
It is a civil demand.
Should you pay?
That is YOUR call.
As you've seen, some pay, some don't.
I would simply advise you NEVER to steal anything, or break any of their laws.