What would happen to an 18 year old charges with theft under 5000
Say it was just a shirtt??

For a first time offense you will probably get probation. Get an attorney and ask about a diversion program.

what would happen to an 18 year old charges with theft under 5000
say it was just a shirtt????


It was "just a shirt"? It's still shoplifting under $5,000.

I would say you are in Canada - youthful diversion is for those under 18 years of age.

Previous charges?

Note there are dozens of threads here asking the same question. I suggest you read them.

As a LP myself and having had arrested many, many people for stupid, petty thefts I can tell you that with the Canadian Justice system, if it is your first charge you do not need a lawyer. Most likely you can get the diversion, simply do a $100.00 or $200.00 donation to a charity of your choosing and charges are dropped. Although, you remain on the system but not with a criminal record. Therefore, you learn a lesson from this and not do it again because if you are caught the second time, it's time to get a lawyer!

As a LP myself and having had arrested many, many people for stupid, petty thefts i can tell you that with the Canadian Justice system, if it is your first charge you do not need a lawyer. Most likely you can get the diversion, simply do a $100.00 or $200.00 donation to a charity of your choosing and charges are dropped. Although, you remain on the system but not with a criminal record. Therefore, you learn a lesson from this and not do it again because if you are caught the second time, it's time to get a lawyer!



I'm a little confused by your post - you say you are an LP. What is an LP? I am certainly familiar with the RCMP and OPP (and similar) but LP is new to me.

Your profile indicates you are a private investigator but you have arrested many, may people. Private Investigators don't arrest people in the US - they have law enforcement powers in Canada?

Yes assuming this is in canada, and it is a first offense,

You will have probation, a large fine and also a large civil cost to the store, it may well be over 1000 dollars to store and fines plus probation time.

LP is loss prevention, think of a store security person. They would stop and detain a person till the police get there.

LP is loss prevention, think of a store security person. They would stop and detain a person till the police get there.


Ah-hah! I was (obviously) thrown by the ability to arrest people.