Q: Can I get arrested just because someone said I stole something from them
This person accuse me of stealing something. Then they said if I paid for I can continue to live their. When I could not pay them the money they locked me out of the house and kept every possession than I own. Is this even legal and can I get arrested for something then I did not do. And how do I go about retrieve of my personal property.
A: Typically there are two common ways one could be arrested. The first way is if the officer has probable cause to make an arrest. In order for the officer to have probable cause to make an arrest, the officer must have credible facts and circumstances present that would lead an ordinary prudent person to believe a crime has been committed and you committed it. The second common way is through an arrest warrant. Thus, it is entirely possible that a credible witness statement with minimal evidence could lead to an arrest.
A: If you had moved into the home and you were locked out when you could not pay that is called an illegal eviction. If you are accused of stealing, but you deny said accusation and there are no witnesses it will be difficult for the State to prosecute such a case. It does not mean you wont be arrested, but the charges may be subsequently dropped. It is best not to speak to the police unless you have an attorney.
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