What to do if my friend and I were caught shoplifting and have an upcoming court date now?
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What to do if my friend and I were caught shoplifting and have an upcoming court date now?
I told the police officers that I was another friend, however, because I already have a warrant out for my arrest. I have since cleared the warrant and plan on confessing at the court date that it was I and not my friend who stole. How much trouble will I most likely receive for stealing and impersonating my friend? This is also my first offense other than a previous trespassing crime which is being expunged from my record and a couple of speeding tickets. The warrant was for failing to appear at my court date for a noise violation ticket.
Asked on January 23, 2013 under Criminal Law, Arkansas
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
There is a lot going on here and things are not as simple as they seem. First you have not said ho much the merchandise cost. I am going to assume that it was less than $500. Shoplifting for this amount in Arkansas is a Class A Misdemeanor punishable up to a year in jail and/or a $2,500.00 fine. Lying to a police officer, though, is also an offense punishable in most all states as well. I would get yourself a lawyer as soon as you can.
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