Legal Question in Criminal Law in Ohio

i went into a boutique and then the cops came and said we are here because the owner has asked you to never come back in here she said i have you on video stealing a top i said ok and left thben the cops followed me out side and then said they have the right to do it..i said ok but i really do not know what is going on i never stole anything they said it was a while back..i said ok i really did not know what to say..then the copos said i saw it and there was a crime here i said ok he said you will be hearing from us..i live in another state about 40 minutes away you will get something in the mail..i did not confess or say anything as i was so scared and confused i thought it be better just to keep my mouth shut.. what do i do..they did not read me my rights, nor did they arrest me what is going on what should i do?


Asked on 6/03/10, 6:01 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Neil Rubin Neil S. Rubin, Attorney at Law, LLC

This message is not meant to: 1) contain my signature; 2) contain legal advice; 3) create an attorney/client relationship; or 4) guarantee confidentiality.

It is a misconception that cops need to give you your rights or the case is dismissed. If they detain you, THEN, rights need to be given. If, in custody and rights are not given, anything you say will NOT be held against you in a court of law. However, they can still charge you with a crime. It's still a good thing you kept your "mouth shut". This is not "Law and Order".

It appears from your facts that the security video will show something important. I suggest waiting for the summons (it may never come), then hiring an attorney to investigate and represent you. Theft of property of less than $500 is a misdemeanor 1. This crime is punishable by $1000 fine, court costs, and 180 days in jail. Don't mess with it.

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Answered on 6/04/10, 12:26 pm


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