I found a handbag that was unattended for at least 30 minutes in a public place and took it. I got caught and was charged with theft even though there was nothing in the handbag that I took except for a few coins. I just wanted to know as a first offence what are the possible punishments I may incur?

Hello my:

Petty theft. My guess is a $100 fine and 10 hours of community service.

excon

Yeah I thought so just came across this site and thought I might as well ask. Cheers

Where? If it's Canada you can apply for diversion.

I found a handbag

You should have turned it into the police



That was unattended for at least 30 minutes in a public place

Seems like your intentions were NOT honorable



I got caught

Your language belies your guilt