Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

shoplifting

Well I really need some legal advice if you have the time. About 10 months I was caught stealing at safeway, they gave me a 200 dollar fine, let me go, and told me that I was not allowed to be on safeway property for a year. Last night I needed gas for my car and went to a safeway gas station hoping that it would still be open (11:00 pm) and that I could just give my friend money so he could pay and pump for me. But when we arived it was closed, so I stepped out of the car and used my credit card (under my name) for the gas. Right after I began filling my car I relized that safeway would be able to see my purchase and arrest me for re-enter safeway's property. Please agree with my freind's opinion that I'm overreacting and they will never make the connection. This all happened in Washington state and when safeway cought me I gave turthful anwsers (social, birth, address.) Also if you could tell me the punishment I may be facing it would be appreciated.

please help.

--name removed--


Asked on 3/08/08, 3:26 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: shoplifting

I agree with your friend that you are likely overreacting. Even if they do piece together that it is your credit card and that you are prohibited from entering their property, the credit card doesn't prove that you were there. You could have loaned the card to someone else. Lastly, since you did nothing illegal on the property, all you would be guilty of is criminal trespass, a simple misdemeanor.

At your service,

Read more
Answered on 3/08/08, 10:19 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Washington