Caught Shoplifting, Part V

As I've been busy lately with my own daytime legal job, I haven't written much here, but received another shopfliting e-mail today that I thought I'd take a minute to answer.

CaNdYsCgH1366 writes: "I was in Claire's in PA, contemplating taking some earrings (I've never stolen before and have no record whatsoever). I took two off a set of 9 (the set of 9 was worth $13) and put them in my bag. A worker came up and asked for "the earrings I put in my bag." I didn't cry and I tried simply to cooperate. Mall security was called and four guys came a few minutes later. I didn't say anything unless I was asked a question or to defend my friends who didn't do anything or know I intended to do anything. I had a humiliated look on my face which I guess the store manager (I think) took as laughter, but I wasn't trying to be disrespectful at all. Anyway, I was just told that I had to leave right away, couldn't enter the mall again for 90 days and could never enter the store again. He asked if the manager (or worker) had my info. She said no, and they had me write down my name, address, phone number, and signature. I put the correct information. I live in NY. I was then escorted out by security. I'm scared to death about what will happen next? In your opinion, do you think it is likely they called the police and will prosecute? What can happen to me if I do have to go to court? Do you think I will be sent a fine? Why did they take my information? How long will it take before I will know if I am in the clear? Meaning, how long do they have to file charges and how long might it take to be sent a letter for fines and a notice to come to court? I know this is just your opinion and no one can know for sure but ANY response would be appreciated. I'm freaking out! Thank you so very much. "

What CaNdYsCgH1366 experienced is the epitome of a manager of a store trying to scare you out of shoplifting again. If the set of earrings was worth $13 and you took a small portion of that (and gave it back) -- there's really nothing the manager can do to you. For a $3 theft, it's not worthy anyone's time or effort. In fact, being told you can't come back for 90 days and them taking your information is a scare-tactic. Yes, they'll keep it on file in the event you try to steal again -- but it's the equivalent of getting a "warning" when you park somewhere you shouldn't. They'll keep them as evidence in the event you do it again. But as long as you don't shoplift at this particular location again, you don't have to wait the 90 days or worry that you'll be pulled into court. It just isn't going to happen.

So don't worry at all. Nothing will happen to you whatsoever.