Although shoplifting is commonly viewed as a minor misdemeanor, it can be punished as a felony, resulting in a year or more prison term. You should never go there alone when everything is on the line in court. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you develop a case to dispute the accusations of shoplifting and safeguard your future.
If you have been accused of shoplifting, use these steps to clear your name:
- Do not try to outrun the guards.
Security guards at a shopping center or a private business might stop you before police are called. You might want to get away from store security if they confront you. You have the right to sue the officer responsible for your wrongful imprisonment.
- Keep quiet and relaxed.
In order to be suspected of shoplifting and detained, many stores require video evidence showing the suspect hiding or otherwise stealing an item. You can not just walk into a store and claim you already have the item in your possession; the witness needs to see you pick it up.
Do not give any details beyond your name if you are stopped for shoplifting in Jersey City. Store security may turn you over to the authorities, and you may feel compelled to explain your actions. Your every word might be taken as a confession. Call an attorney if the cops want to question you. The interrogation by the police should end when you say this.
- Learn about the concept of “shopkeeper’s privilege.”
Jersey City recognizes a statute called shopkeeper’s privilege, which allows store owners to detain suspected shoplifters on the premises. There must be reasonable suspicion for the store owner or manager to detain the suspect. The alleged shoplifter can only be held for a reasonable period of time. Merchants must proceed cautiously when employing this right should the putative shoplifter assert they were wrongfully detained or arrested.
- It is possible for mistakes to occur on both sides of the ledger.
It is possible that the store’s owner or manager honestly mistook the customer’s actions for stealing. Show the management a receipt or other proof if you have it. You should exercise your right to remain silent if they keep making accusations against you.
- Get yourself a good shoplifting attorney right away
An expert criminal defense attorney can clarify the accusations and potential consequences you face if you are found guilty of shoplifting. If you have legal representation, you can rest assured that you will thoroughly understand the prosecution’s burden of proof. A criminal defense lawyer will not only fill you in on all the details of your case but will also try to get the accusations against you dropped or reduced.