What is the legitimate amount that can be charged for shoplifted items that were returned undamaged?
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What is the legitimate amount that can be charged for shoplifted items that were returned undamaged?
My 14 year old daughter and her 14 year old friend went to a store and tried to steal some clothes. They where caught before they left the store. They where not arrested. They where told that since the tags where taken off they would be responsible for 3 times the amount. Combined the clothes were $147. That’s over $800. Now a law firm has sent a letter for each girl to pay 3 times the amount. Is this disputable? The letter is addressed to her parents/guardian. What is her/my responsibility?
Asked on November 30, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Maryland
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
What you have been sent is known as a "civil demand letter". These demands are routinely made in shoplifting cases. However, typically they are rarely acted upon. As a practical matter your chances of being sued are slim to none (but in theory you could be). So you can ignore this letter if you want.
Just be aware - if you don't pay this first demand, you will almost certainly receive a second for an even higher amount. Again, you can ignore it if you chose. If however you decide that you want to make a payment, pay no more than a token $50 or $75 since the clothes were returned undamaged. Put this in a letter to them. Do not speak with them directly. These collectors are known for threatening and intimidating tactics.
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