It seems that we find self-checkout stations in every store we walk into. Self-checkout stations are growing rapidly and they will continue to grow. Many people do not like these self-checkout stations because it reduces jobs in the industry, and also because the self-checkout stations are too impersonal. However, the stores that use these self-checkout stations have a goal of cutting labor costs, and this is possible when self-checkout stations are implemented.
However, using these self-checkout stations can also result in an increase in crime, especially shoplifting. Many stores have realized that an increased use in self-checkout stations will result in a loss of revenue. Many people may blame the shoplifting on just human nature because they feel they are justified when they take an item out of the store without scanning the item.
Taking an item without paying for it is not really worth, especially when you think about the legal implications and the financial implications. Many people do not think that shoplifting is that big of a deal. However, we want you to know that it is indeed a big deal. When you are convicted of a shoplifting charge, your reputation can be damaged.
If you or a loved one has been faced with shoplifting charges, we want to inform you of five things you should do.
Do Not Make An Attempt To Resist Or Leave The Store
The majority of the time, the police will not be involved in the arrest for a shoplifting charge. Instead, the person who has been accused of shoplifting will be approached by one of the private security officers. If the person is guilty of shoplifting by the store security guard, that person may be tempted to run out of the store or resist being arrested. If you have been detained illegally, you do have a right to challenge this is a court. However, if you run from the officer, you will be seen as guilty. You do not want to do anything that will put your case in jeopardy.
Do Not Make A Statement
When you have been handed over to the police, you may feel tempted to justify your actions or to state that you have simply made a huge mistake. However, you may think that this is only a simple explanation of what has happened, but the officer and store manager can see this as you admitting that you are guilty. If you are being questioned by the police, you should remember that you have the right to ask for an attorney.
Hire The Right Attorney To Represent You
A charge of shoplifting can be a serious offense. You will need to make sure you have the right person your side to assist you. You will need an attorney who has experience in criminal offenses like shoplifting.
Pay What You Owe
If you are arrested for shoplifting, this will mean that you were not able to leave the store with the product you are attempting to take. Since you were not able to actually steal the item, restitution may not be an option. However, if the store wants you to pay for an item, you should do this immediately. You may be able to avoid having a criminal conviction or being sent to jail if you make a restitution payment. However, if you are innocent, you will not need to make this payment if your case to go to a trial.
If you do not want to have a shoplifting charge on your record and have a possibility of serving time in jail, you should ignore the temptation to take an item out of the store. If you are facing shoplifting charges, contact us today for a consultation.
Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
