I was caught shoplifting a little over 3 weeks ago at The Bay (in Ontario, Canada). I was released on their "Shop Theft" program, because I had no prior criminal record (meaning the police didn't have to come to the store, the Loss Prevention agent just had to take my ID and value of the attempted stolen merchandise and fax it over to the police station to get the OK to let me leave). Obviously I was banned from the store (and all HBC stores) for a year and she told me The Bay would be suing me in Civil Court, which I understand is very common and doesn't hold much weight if you ignore their letters (unless you receive a Statement Of Claim)! But I was told I would receive a summons in the mail if the police were charging me criminally, and she assumed they would since the amount of attempted stolen merchandise was so high (almost $700). I know it sounds like a lot, but it was just expensive clothing. How soon does this criminal summons arrive? I have felt sick checking the mail everyday! Is there a chance I am not getting criminally charged? How do I know?
Believe me, I will NEVER do it again... so stupid and not worth the stress just to have some off the rack designer clothing!!
I need help from someone who actually knows what they are talking about! :confused:
Thank you!

I have been in the loss prevention business for almost 10 years, and as far as I know they are supposed to call the police every time , not fax your info over, but there is instances where the police are taking too long and you can cancel the police call. That means there was no call to the police.
But if you want to do a little digging go to the local police station where the offence occurred not where you live and ask them, I would because I don't like living day to day not know what's going on.

Pretty sure you will receive the civil recovery papers from a law firm, it will be like double or triple of what you stold. You can pay it or you can not answer the letter, its total up to you. A lot of people don't pay for it because there is a fine line right now if this is even legal to do. I know what I would do if I get those papers, not a penny

Hi, I am in a similar situation. I was caught shoplifting about 7 months ago. No police was called. I signed paper with security guard admitting my guilt. 4 months after the incident, I received and paid the civil demand. But now, I am just wondering when (hopefully not) will I get the crimal charge. I am in BC. Hope you can share any info. With me.

In response to Banton, there is no "fine line" with regard to civil recovery. It is quite legal as long as the company carries it out properly. For instance, if the company gave the impression that paying the civil recovery amount would get rid of *criminal charges* they would be (A) wrong, and (B) committing a criminal act themselves. Reputable companies, however, who are genuinely attempting to settle the *civil* liability associated with shoplifting are perfectly legitimate.

In response to Banton, there is no "fine line" with regard to civil recovery. It is quite legal as long as the company carries it out properly. For instance, if the company gave the impression that paying the civil recovery amount would get rid of *criminal charges* they would be (A) wrong, and (B) committing a criminal act themselves. Reputable companies, however, who are genuinely attempting to settle the *civil* liability associated with shoplifting are perfectly legitimate.



You responded to a 2008 question which was brought back to life in January 2009 - please pay attention to the dates.

It appears *OP* has not been back.

[QUOTE=LacyLaPlante disagrees : Others can use this info.
.[/QUOTE]


I'm quoting AMHD rules. I'm not making things up as I go along. The reddie indicates you disagree with my advice which is to obey the rules of the site.