Legal Question in Criminal Law in New Jersey

Theft by deception

I work for a retailer that has a rewards program that collects points and after X amount of points you get a $20 off a purchase of $20 or more. Since managers were riding my case to get the numbers up I asked customers if they didn't have a card and didn't want to sign one if they minded if I used a blank one. If they agreed I did use it if not I didn't. I ended up collecting like $80 in these "rewards" and gave $60 to a bunch of friends to use. I ended up getting talked to by loss prevention and threaten with theft by deception. Does this action qualify as this under NJ state law? I searched and all I saw was over $200 for 4th degree. What could I get charged with if anything?


Asked on 12/21/10, 10:13 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Jonathan Mincis Jonathan J. Mincis, Esq. Law Offices

They could charge you with shoplifting (employee theft) or as stated attempt to charge you with theft by deception, alleging that you came up with a plan to collect these rewards points to use for yourself, but it doesn't mean you did it. So far it sounds like that they are investigating and that you have not been charged with anything. Obviously, if they file a criminal complaint against you then it pays to speak to a lawyer, if something occurs, please feel free to contact me I never charge a consultation fee, (201)-894-9498

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Answered on 12/27/10, 8:17 am
SAUL SEGAN SAUL H SEGAN ATTY AT LAW

You might have a defense, but there may be alternatives including a local ordinance plea.

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Call me at 215-732-4000 Mention Law Guru

www.saulhsegan.com

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Answered on 12/30/10, 11:29 am


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