Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

tough question

I know a person that was arrested and prosecuted for shoplifting. It was for 250.00. The store suspects shes taken more because they've been watching her. I happen to know they are right and I have witnesses that would state that she has taken in the range of 10,000 to 20,000 dollars in merchandise.I know where and what the merchandise is. I called crime stoppers and they told me they couldn't do anything due to the double jeopardy law. I know this is a totally different incident(s) so I dont think that counts here. Some of this stuff is in my house, and I need to know who I can approach about this. Is this considered double jeopardy, even though I know and have witnesses stating that these things were taken at a different time(s). I know this is not an ordinary question, but I don't know who to ask. This is really eating at me considering this is a member of my family and I want her to pay because she did this stuff when my four year old son was with her. I would really appreciate some sound advice on what to do. Thank you for your time.


Asked on 4/11/04, 10:23 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Neil O'Brien Eaton County Special Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Re: tough question

You're probably right that double jeopardy would not prevent additional prosecutions as long as there is proof that the additional items were stolen on days other than the offense date stated on the first case's complaint (charging document).

If you have some of this stolen property in your possession, you are putting yourself at risk of being prosecuted for "receiving/concealing stolen property", and the value of the good (over $1,000) puts it in a felony range. So, you should consult an attorney about what you should do.

I'm not a "private practice" lawyer, but if I was in your shoes, I would contact the police and tell them to come over to my house and take the stolen goods away, and tell them what you know about the other person's activity. It's one of the best ways you can ensure that you will not get in trouble with the law under these circumstances ... since thieves or other people guilty of possessing hot goods typically don't call the police sand say "come here and take all my stuff from me!"

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Answered on 4/12/04, 8:51 am


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