What is going to happen to me? (shoplifting)?

I got caught shoplifting at the university bookstore today. I know it was a stupid thing to do but i was desperate. I needed that book so i can do my homework, which was due the next day. I needed that book today so i shoplifted because i was desperate. Before you guys make any mean comments, just know that i will never do this again and i know it was stupid.

Anyways, the security said this will go on my record and i would have to pay a fine and most likely go to court but they weren't very clear. The stuff i stole was worth 64 dollars. And the security said there is a possibility this will get off my record. Also, they made me write a police statement saying that they were going to send this to the police. Will the statement determine if this will be on my record?
What do you guys think? Please hlep me. i'm so scared

What is the police statement for? and should i hire a lawyer? I don't have any money for a lawyer..

YOUR GOING TO SAN QUINTEN!

This is a misdemeanor offense...probably class C. I doubt anything more than 6 months' probation would happen, plus fines. It will be on your permanent record, but is not a deal-breaker even for higher security jobs 5 or so years down the line being a first offense.

Just don't let it happen again!

what did you do with all the financial aid?

Dint sweat it so much. The criminal record for 64 dollars petty thief is maybe no more then dint do again warning. That's even if the book store prosecutes

petty theft didnt get away youll get a slap on the wrist

If it goes to court, they will give you a lawyer. The school you attend may also try to discipline you so check into that. Be proactive and seek legal advice at least. The school may have a committe you can go to and plead your case.

As far as the law, this would be a minor offense. With things like this you would attend classes on why not to steal. No Jail unless you have done this before. One person I knew went to jail on her third offense even though the amounts were minor. It was not for long though.

Legal Aid should also be a resource. They may let a court attornery represent you because they are so busy. Usually you can get advice though. If you have done anything illegal and been arrested before you are in worse shape. It is cumulative. But on the other hand if you are good for the time a judge says, they can have this expunged.

Get a job or student loan. Dont ruin your college education and future career by stealing. Employers would screen you out.

I'm not sure about the situation being with the university and all but I used to work retail so I can tell you a little about that.

Most retail stores will not charge shoplifters in court. Why? Because it will cost more to take the shoplifter to court than the item is actually worth. If someone is caught in a retail store concealing merchandise to steal usually the manager or security will just kick them out to scare them. They never actually press charges because it costs more to do so than the merchandise is actually worth. If the total price of what you stole was $64 the store probably marked it up to make a profit so it's probably only worth maybe $15-20. Also, believe it or not there are laws that protect shoplifters. Were you completely out of the store before security stopped you? I ask because it makes a BIG difference.

I'm guessing security was just trying to scare you out of doing it again. I'm sure there are plenty of students who shoplift so the more they can scare out of doing it the better.

As far as your criminal record I think the company will have to press charges for it to stay on your criminal record and again I'm not sure you stole enough for it to be worth it to them. If they do press charges I think that small amount will only be considered a misdemeanor anyway. As far as your university record it might go on there. If I were you I would be more concerned about issues with the school than issues with the law.

Lastly, and most importantly, I don't know what you said in your statement but if they do press charges that statement could be the thing that incriminates you especially if it's in writing. In the US, (I'm assuming you're in the US) you have the right to remain silent. "You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law." They mean it. They will use anything you say (or write) against you in court. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER give up that right. They can not make you talk, so don't.

If this is your first offense it is unlikely that the police will do anything. I don't know what actions the university can take. I think a fine is passable. For now try not to worry. Look for a part time job so you can pay for your books.

Firstly, you could just set up shop in the store by using the book inside (no pun intended.) Also, try the library next time. As for your record, it's petty theft, a misdemeanor, so chances are if you could scrounge up $64 and a pretty smile, you could walk down there and say that you're sorry. If not, you have to deal with the consequences of your actions. You did a stupid thing, but it is good that you admit it. I doubt they would take you to court for a stupid book, though.

if your a minor its likely it will be taken off your record but seeing that your not you would be charged with a misdemenor-petit lacrcenry.
dont worry-if you dont have a criminal history you wont face jail time, you will most likely have to pay a fine...if you get a lawyer it is likely that you could get out of it and just do community service...I would discuss it with your parents and try to see if they will pay for you to get a lawyer...or you could get a court appointed...but seriously dont stress it, its prettty minor-but don't be expecting to be working for the cia anytime soon.
best of luck

If the University does press charges..you will be called to court..pay a fine..& the crime will be recorded..(you will have a mis-deameanor record). If it were at Walmart or similar store..they would also bill you $200. or so, for the costs of security. It could be the University will let you off..If it's your first offense..& you are a good student.

lmao You just might be totally screwed... Just imagine if you were in MEXICO.. and in their prisons.. hahaha my son you are forgiven go and sin no more!!! if it comes down to it just get a PTI and you'l be ok stop pooping your pants!!!!

run away.


nah idk, im sure itll be fine

If you are a juvenile under 18, don't sweat it. Because your juvenile record isn't made public after you become an adult.
Just pay the fine. It's a bargain price for a lesson learning not to steal anything ever again. Many don't learn, and wind up in prison.
If you are over 18 and it goes to court, ask the judge to appoint you a lawyer if you can't afford one.