Legal Question in Criminal Law in Missouri

I received a phone call from a police officer stating that a local grocery store has accused me of stealing several items from their store and that the officer wanted to hear my side of the story before filing for an arrest warrant. Firstly, do officers really call you like this before issuing a warrant of such? I then called the precinct 2 times that day, leaving a message for the officer, but they have never called me back. I am so scared that they will show up to my home with a warrant and arrest me in front of my children. It has been 4 days since they called me.

I did go to the store 4 days ago and bought $80 worth of groceries. I went back thru the store (with my purchased groceries and bags) to actually get a few items which I had forgotten to get, put them in my cart and as I was walking back up to pay for them, I decided to not get them and put them back down. I did notice a store employee which stared at me and then begin pointing at me with another store employee, but I truly thought nothing of it, at the time. I had looked at my cell phone to see what time it was and realized that I needed to get home, drop off groceries, and change clothes in order to make it to a meeting on time. So, with this in mind I put the items back down and left the store with my purchased items. So I thought! When I got out to the car, I realized that I did indeed have an item in which I forgot to purchase, or put back on the shelf. Since I was running close on time for my meeting, I did a stupid thing, and went ahead putting the item in my car and left. I had thought of taking it back in, but assumed that they would not believe me and I was already running behind on time. This WAS a stupid thing, now that I think of it.

I am wondering what I should do from here. Will the police show up at my door with a warrant for my arrest? They obviously knew my name and cell phone number, which I have no idea how they got those. Should I be worried? How long would it take for a warrant to be issued if they do come looking for me? I am so worried about this.


Asked on 7/26/13, 11:43 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

I would advise you not to speak with the police. If they do bring you in for questioning, you should respectfully decline answering any questions or making any statements. They will charge you if the prosecutor believes there is sufficient evidence. If I were in your position, I would contact and hire an attorney immediately. If this case is within one of the jurisdictions where II practice regularly, I may be able to help you. I have been handling such cases for the last thirty-five years. You may contact me directly for a free telephone consultation.

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Answered on 7/27/13, 5:17 pm


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