Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Shoplifting charge rejected due to insufficient evidence

A friend and I stole approximetly $60 worth of clothing from Sears. We admitted to stealing the clothes, returned them and then recieved a citation from the police. A few weeks later we both recieved letters from their attorney asking for $400 each, which we both paid. Today was our court date but when we arrived we were not schedualed to appear. We went to the information center and they gave us the number of the DA to contact for information. We did so in person and the police officer that helped us said that it was rejected due to insufficient evidence. He said that they still had a year to press charges but it was very unlikely. My question is if the police is right? We admitted to the crime, they have us on tape and they saw us remove the clothing from our purses. What are the chances that it stays rejected? Also, what is on my record now? I was booked and arrested, but never convicted. Will this prevent me from future employment? Thanks in advance.


Asked on 4/20/07, 11:03 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Shoplifting charge rejected due to insufficient evidence

No one knows what the da will or will not do. The statute of limitations is 1 year unless the da decides to file the case as a felony, burglary, then the statute of limitations is 3 years. Your best approach at this time is to not call the da or the police again on this matter. If it somehow was misplaced, you don't want to wake them up by asking questions. The next year will be emotionally difficult, but if you keep a low profile this whole matter may just go away.

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Answered on 4/30/07, 8:51 pm


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