Q: Walked out of a supermarket with 126$ worth of groceries with nobody stoping me. What consequences can I expect?
At a self checkout machine at a supermarket there was a problem when finalizing the payment. A message prompt on screen” wait, help is on the way” My friend waited while bagging his groceries. Some time went by and nobody approached him to help. He walked out of the store confused with the grocery cart. 126$ worth of food. He left the parking lot with his car. What are the posible consequences now? Thank you ( he is an international student on a F-1 visa)
A:
It seems to me that THIS TIME your friend may get by without a criminal prosecution. This might depend on whether the store had a security camera inside and outside, and whether the license plate of his vehicle or ID becomes known. Some stores have a 'take no prisoners' approach to prosecuting theft, but the amount here is small enough they may not see it worth their time. If they do prosecute, you may receive a letter that could be a notice to appear for a clerk magistrates hearing on the shoplifting.
If it goes to a clerks hearing be sure to show up, preferably with a lawyer, as that will afford the best opportunity for the case to be resolved or dismissed. The charge would be a misdemeanor at the worst, with a high liklihood of an outcome that would not mar a record. Given the international status though, it was not a prudent decision to leave without paying for the groceries. Time will tell if there will be a consequence. In the interim, DO NOT go back into that store. The store may post his photo and grab him if he returns. Please be sure to speak to a lawyer asap if a charge issues.
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