What happens when you shoplift for the first time?

What happens when you shoplift for the first time?

A first offense conviction for shoplifting carries up to 6 months in county jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. However, these are not mandatory punishments and only represent the maximum sentencing exposure you face if charged with shoplifting under California Penal Code 459.5.

Does Walmart drop shoplifting charges?

Will Walmart drop shoplifting charges? Some Walmarts are notorious for over-zealously pursuing even minor shoplifting charges. However, many first-time shoplifters can get their charges expunged or dismissed through their county’s deferred adjudication and pretrial diversion programs.

What happens when you go to court for shoplifting at Walmart?

Walmart will prosecute these shoplifters. Once law enforcement arrives on the scene, you will usually be placed under arrest. However, for lower-level offenses, the responding officer may just issue a citation instead of formally placing you under arrest.

Why would a prosecutor drop charges?

The most common reason why criminal charges may be dropped is a lack of proof. The prosecution has to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. This does not mean you are free for good; a prosecutor may drop with the intent of filing again later, after they have collected more evidence.

Can you get Walmart to drop shoplifting charges?

While it is possible that Walmart could drop shoplifting charges against you, you shouldn’t count on it. However, many first-time shoplifters can get their charges expunged or dismissed through their county’s deferred adjudication and pretrial diversion programs.

Is it good idea to plead guilty at first court appearance?

It is almost never a good idea to plead guilty at your first court appearance without checking to see if there are alternatives to a criminal conviction. Criminal convictions tend to follow you for years, possibly for life.

What are the issues in a shoplifting case?

The following issues may arise in your shoplifting case: Mistakes. Store security people are not trained police officers. They make mistakes and mishandle evidence. Unavailable witnesses. Private security personnel often don’t stay long in the same job, or at the same address.

Do you have to plead guilty to a misdemeanor?

Instead, the state had to reduce to a misdemeanor. Remember, you still have the choice of pleading guilty if you have explored all the alternatives and you still believe that a guilty plea is your best option. A guilty plea should be your fallback position, not your first choice.

Can a private security company prove you stole?

Private security personnel often don’t stay long in the same job, or at the same address. If the witness who claims to have seen you steal is not available, the prosecutor will not be able to prove the case unless there is a videotape that can be identified by someone.