Should I payacivil fine if was wrongly accused of shoplifting?
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Should I payacivil fine if was wrongly accused of shoplifting?
Ii’m 17 and have a clean record. I was at store and bought $25 with of stuff. On my way out security came out and said that I stole make up. I handed over the $12 make-up and sat down. There were no other females in the room, just 5 guys. They were making jokes and asking for my number, basically hitting on me. It wasn’t until later they realized that I was 17. They said that I had to have a guardian get me or they would call the police. My aunt came and that was that. They also said that I have a $250 fee. Should I pay it? Could I get into trouble if I went back? Were they in the right?
Asked on April 3, 2011 under Criminal Law, Arizona
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
You have not given enough details as to what happened after you gave then the receipt. Did they acknowledge that you had indeed purchased the alleged stolen merchandise? What did they say? I am assuming not because of the fine but I need more info. No, do not pay the fine that they have sent to you. It is not a court imposed penalty and they appear to have not proven that you stole anything. You should speak with an attorney on this matter and about their behaviour right away. And do not go back to the store until then. You need to take this seriously and take action. Good luck to you.
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