Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in New York

Caught Shoplifting at Place of Employment

Over the summer, I worked at a Kaufmann's Department Store (of the Filene's chain). On August 30th, I finished my shift and put some articles of clothing into my bag. A store security guard searched me and I was fired two days later after being called into a meeting. I was not referred to the authorities. From what happened, I'm assuming I don't have a criminal record, but I don't know what to expect from here. Will I be sent a bill for miscellaneous security expenses? Will my working record be tarnished forever? How will this affect my prospects for finding a job this summer? What about post-college, when I want to get a real job? I know that background checks are commonly used now because of employers' fears of being sued for negligent hiring practices. I am a 19 year old female, this is a first and only offense. What do I do? What should I expect?


Asked on 10/12/04, 5:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Antoinette Wooten The Wooten Legal Consulting, PC

Re: Caught Shoplifting at Place of Employment

If your former employer did not contact the police at the time of the theft, or immediately thereafter, it is safe to assume that no charges were brought against you. However, when you fill out job applications in the future you may be asked why did you leave your former employer. Keep in mind if you lie about your dismissal, you may be dismissed from furture jobs. You will also have the option of requesting that future employers not contact Kaufam's as a reference.

AMW

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Answered on 10/13/04, 10:42 pm


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