I got caught stealing, what should I do and what happens next?
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I got caught stealing, what should I do and what happens next?
It was $40 worth of merchandise. I was stopped at the door and taken to the security office. I was very sincere about the matter and they did not call the cops. I have had no other record of any kind and was given an “Asset Protection Recovery” form (basically just saying that I was involved in a shoplifting incident) and a “statute” form (basically just says what the store can do under state law, and what I have to do – return merchandise, etc.) I can either call and take care of it or wait for a letter? No police no record, right? How do I handle this matter?
Asked on February 5, 2011 under Criminal Law, New Jersey
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
You will receive a letter from the store stating that you will need to pay a certain amount, which will be considerably more than the $40 from the shoplifting incident. The letter will explain that if the amount is not paid by a certain date, criminal prosecution for the theft will occur.
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