Can a grocery store file theft charges against you for unreturned movies?
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Can a grocery store file theft charges against you for unreturned movies?
We rented movies from a store in our area, and they are currently 17 days over due. We recieved a phone call from the police dept letting us know that the store has filed theft charges against us and we will be arrested. I have never heard of such a thing and am wondering if this is legal?
Asked on October 27, 2010 under Criminal Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
Yes, it does wound ludicrous but apparently the police department gave them an ear and let them file the charges. So I am leaning toward legal here. What does your rental contract state? That the movies will be returned within a certain period of time? Well not returning them is a form of theft so there is some validity to the claim. I would call the movie store and give them a piece of my mind. A simple reminder would have been more appropriate and I would let them know that this was not a good business decision. Then return the movies as soon as you can. Then find another movie store. Good luck.
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