Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Can I be in trouble?

Last night my brother called me to ask me for a ride. I went to pick him up and he asked me to drive down the road he left his back pack laying, it had his personal belongings in it; it was too heavy for him to carry. When I arrived there was a cop there, going through the backpack. They took our personal info. because they thought it was suspisious. After we left, I asked my brother what was going on. That's when he informed me that he stole a credit card and used it. The items in the back pack were what he had purchased with the credit card. Can i be in trouble?


Asked on 5/29/07, 8:49 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Douglas Sughrue Attorneys Crosby & Sughrue

Re: Can I be in trouble?

I agree that you could be, but right now, it is more important that you and your brother understand that you do not ever have to speak with the police. If they question you, you have the right to tell them that you wish to consult a lawyer. Also, you should tell them that you are choosing to remain silent until you get a lawyer.

When speaking with the police, you have to tell them the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth or you can choose to say nothing. Please, say nothing, hire a lawyer and your situtation should resolve itself favorably. Just give the officers your name, date of birth, ssn and address. The same goes for your brother, who has a greater amount of exposure to punishment. Lastly, if the police wan tto speak with you, they already think you are involved in some manner. Talking will only limit your available defenses and perhaps provide the police with the information they need/want.

Thanks for the inquiry & good luck.

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Answered on 6/01/07, 4:59 pm
John Gibson John W. Gibson, Esquire

Re: Can I be in trouble?

Yes, it could be trouble. But it would be difficult to tie you to the illegal use of the credit card. It may be worthwhile to consult an attorney beforehand so that you will have representation if the police question you.

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Answered on 5/30/07, 9:55 am
Brian Zeiger Levin & Zeiger LLP

Re: Can I be in trouble?

you could be in trouble if the DA could show that you had any knowledge and/or any participation in the crime of either stealing the card(s) or making the purchases. Otherwise, no.

feel free to email or call, [email protected] 215.825.5183. Good Luck. Brian.

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Answered on 5/29/07, 9:06 pm


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