Yesterday my boyfriend and I were caught shoplifting in Ohio. We stole $30 of groceries and were arrested and let go because the police were busy and the jail full. Neither of us have any priors. We have court in the morning and I am very concerned about possible jail time. What punishment is most likely for us?
Unless there are issues you haven't mentioned jail will not likely be an option. You should talk to a Lawyer though about defense options like Diversion
. Fines less than $500.00
. Community service
. Probation
. Ban from retailer
are the norm. They might include theft classes or other issues. These are not guarantees You main concern might be having a criminal record. Talk to your Lawyer about Diversion
The cop who arrested us said it's a possibility that we may go to jail because the judge is tired of shoplifters. And also, I know someone who stole from the same place we did and was sentenced to jail for three days. I don't want to go to jail. I don't know what I should do; plead guilty or ask for a public defender. Any suggestions?
Have you been reading anything you have been told? If you dont have time to consult Lawyers and cannot afford your own then yes plead not guilty and ask for Public Defender. then talk to this PD about the availability of Diverson
First, your friend got caught at a store and you decided to steal from there? Not a smart decision.
Second, the police will tell you anything and everything to scare you. I am sure the judge is tired of shoplifters, but to waste the communities money by sending you to jail for a small theft would be unwise on his part. More than likely, you will have to pay back the community by completing community service and by paying fines and court costs.
Get an attorney since you are facing criminal charges. They will be able to assist you in minimizing the impact that this charge has on you.
Expect at minimum to be banned from the store (DO NOT RETURN THERE EVER - if by the unlucky chance you do get caught again in that store, they can revoke the deal you made with them and impose a jail sentence, plus you can be charged with criminal trespassing), a civil demand and your day in court.
Please do not steal anymore. Was the $30 in groceries really worth it in the big picture?
