Ask Me Help Desk - Theft Under $5000

Two days ago I was charged with theft under 5000 and it's my first time stealing. I'm only 15 years old and I have a print date and a court date. The store says they're not pressing charges so I don't understand why I have to go to court and such. I did however get banned from the mall and store because of it. Further more they didn't loose any thing as I was caught with it and it was placed back on the shelves.
Can someone please explain what exactly is going on. And also I'd like to know how much I may have to pay. If anyone can help me understand I'd really appreciate it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Akina

Two days ago I was charged with theft under 5000 and it's my first time stealing. I'm only 15 years old and I have a print date and a court date. The store says they're not pressing charges so I don't understand why I have to go to court and such. I did however get banned from the mall and store because of it. Further more they didn't loose any thing as I was caught with it and it was placed back on the shelves.
Can someone please explain what exactly is going on. And also i'd like to know how much I may have to pay. If anyone can help me understand i'd really appreciate it.

You are missing the point if you think that simply because the store got back their merchandise that everything is OK. You committed a "Crime". You broke a trust . If you care about yourself and others you need to show remorse and over time you will need to regain their trust. The more important questions you need to ask yourself is "Why". Why did you do it? Be honest with yourself. Did you need what you took? Are you simply looking to get someone attention? Only you know why. Believe it or not you are very lucky to have this happen now so that you can sort it out and get back on track. Being a criminal is only fun on TV. Do you really what to lose the trust and respect of the people who love you and who you love? Think about.

Good Luck.

Apparently the police were called in, hence the need for a court date. I'm not sure who told you the store wasn't pressing charges, but if they weren't then you probably wouldn't have a court date. You will need an attorney.

Thanks to both of you who replied to my question. It did help a bit.
To ScottGem, the store manager told me he wasn't pressing charges so I'm not sure how that works out with the court date but thanks for your input anyway.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Akina

Further more they didn't loose any thing as I was caught with it and it was placed back on the shelves.

I don't understand Judge, how can I be charged with attempted murder?

All I did was shoot the gun at her, but the bullet didn't hit her, it just hit the wall next to her. Then the police came and took my gun away.

The fact is that you DID steal. They were good and they caught you, but you DID steal. Yes, they retrieved their stolen product, so what?

If I steal your dad's car and in 1 hour the cops catch me and give your dad his car back, did I really steal his car? He was at home that day, not even planning to go out, he didn't really need his car, so what did he lose? I will pay him for the gas, and other than that, what harm is that?

You said you have been charged with theft under 5,000, so I am assuming you are somewhere in Canada.

Since you are 15 (under 18), you are covered under the YCJA (Youth Criminal Justice Act). Most likely you will walk away with community service and some sort of fine. Perhaps only probation. Jail time is VERY unlikely. And once you turn 18, this incident will be wiped off your criminal record forever.