Shoplifting

...my question is regarding shoplifting. I appeared to walk out of a store with an item in my cart which I had not purchased ... I am an adult and have a clean record otherwise. I am scared and very much worried. I do no want the police to come and arrest me at home or at work, I would rather turn myself in if there is a warrant for my arrest. I can't afford a lawyer and wondering if I should go ahead and contact a public defender and explain to them what happened.

Did they try to stop you?

If not they may have decided not to pursue it and frankly it may be best to let it be at this point.

You did not actually leave with the item so there is certainly room to dispute this entire event and your intent etc.

If by some small chance the police do come, don't talk and ask for a lawyer. Wait until you can arrange a lawyer before you speak!

thanks for all of your responses. SunLover, I will be posting my question at the site you suggested as well.

[wld_team]

There are no censors at a law forum but no need to post information that can identify you personally if relating to an alleged offense.

There certainly are experienced lawyers that are familiar with retail theft here, though most end up dealing with matters through the private options available here.

[sunlover]

The site I suggested has word censors to prevent posters from posting info tha tcan ID them. This includes "store name" In fact Target has people whose job is it to troll internet for various purposes. I personally know of persons who have been arrested, fired, suspended etc due to post on internet message boards and legal ones at that!