Legal Question in Criminal Law in Colorado

Shoplifting

My friend was caught shoplifting when I was with him and they gave me a ticket for shoplifting and conspiracy to commit shoplifting. I didn't know anything about him doing this and we both told the police that I had NOTHING to do with it. I'm confident that the store video camaras will show me just looking around the store and trying on a pair of pants. When I got out of the dressing room he said he was ready to go. When we left the store the police took us down like we were on an episode of cops. I've never been in trouble with the law before. Do you think they will drop the conspiracy part if I agree to pay the $150 shoplifting fine and be done with it? I know it's a misdemeanor ticket (I was never arrested or fingerprinted) and it won't show up on my backround check. Is that how you understand it? I greatly appreciate any advise you can provide. Thank you


Asked on 12/24/07, 12:11 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Richard B. Huttner Richard B. Huttner, P.C.

Re: Shoplifting

You can be charged with conspiracy if the police think you acted together with someone else. There is a shoplifting civil penalty and court case. They are separate issues. Shoplifting are serious charges because they label somebody. If you are not fingerprinted, it doesn't prevent you from being found in some background checks. It may prevent you from being put into the national crime database but the court case may continue to show up.

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Answered on 12/24/07, 12:19 pm
Philip Rosmarin Rosmarin Law Firm

Re: Shoplifting

If the police have no proof that you were shoplifting, or conspiring with your friend to steal, there is a very high likelihood that charges against you will be dismissed. For heaven's sake, plead not guilty and fight the charges.

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Answered on 12/28/07, 4:00 am


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