I attempted to shoplift two sweaters at the Bay and just when I was about to walk out out the store, I realized I was being followed by undercover loss prevention security, I went back to changing room and left the two sweaters there. I left the store and after I was stopped by two men saying they're the Bay security and need me to go back with them and they and police charged me with theft under, totaling $490.

I didn't walk out the door of the Bay but they said I passed the security detecting stands and so it still counts even though I went back to return the sweaters.

I was charged with theft under when I was 18, 4 years ago and I told them this as well.

What will happen to me? Will I still get diversion?

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Originally Posted by Jbess

I attempted to shoplift two sweaters at the Bay and just when I was about to walk out out the store, I realized I was being followed by undercover loss prevention security, I went back to changing room and left the two sweaters there. I left the store and after I was stopped by two men saying they're the Bay security and need me to go back with them and they and police charged me with theft under, totaling $490.

I didn't walk out the door of the Bay but they said I passed the security detecting stands and so it still counts even though I went back to return the sweaters.

I was charged with theft under when I was 18, 4 years ago and I told them this as well.

What will happen to me? Will I still get diversion?

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Diversion is for first time offenders, so you do not qualify.

Because you have shoplifted before, possibly got diversion, shoplifted again, I would guess that there is going to be a fine, you will be banned from the store, you will be put on probation, may be placed on probation for a period. The Court will make certain that you learn a lesson this time.

In Canada the store can also charge you for its time and trouble, even though the merchandise was returned.

You will also have a permanent record.

I'd get an Attorney.