Being charged with shoplifting is a severe offense with long-term consequences. If you’ve been wrongfully accused of shoplifting in Florida, you should act quickly to protect your legal rights. While stealing is commonly considered a minor violation, some theft charges can be punished as felonies, resulting in a year or more in prison. When so much is on the line, you don’t want to go to court alone. A knowledgeable retail theft attorney can help you develop a solid case that refutes the claims while safeguarding your reputation and future chances.
What Can You Do if You Are Falsely Accused of Stealing?
Keep a Calm and Quiet Manner
If you’re suspected of shoplifting in Florida, keep everything but your identity to yourself. Make the most of your right to stay silent. Never admit or confess to shoplifting.
You may feel forced to explain yourself if store security hands you over to the authorities. Any statement you make could be interpreted as a declaration of guilt. If the police continue to question you, exercise your right to an attorney. After you say this, the cops should cease asking you.
Don’t Try to Get Away from Security Personnel
Unarmed mall security or private security personnel may stop you before law enforcement arrives. You might be inclined to leave if confronted by store security. Don’t. If you flee from security officials, this may be construed as evidence of guilt.
Mistakes Can Happen
It’s possible that a store owner or manager made an honest error and mistook believed they saw theft. Show the manager your receipt or other evidence if you have it. If they keep accusing you, you should exercise your right to remain silent so that nothing you say can be used against you later.
Obtain the Services of a Skilled Retail Theft Attorney
If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in Florida, an expert criminal defense lawyer can clarify the charges and fines you could face. An attorney will make sure that you completely comprehend the evidence that the prosecution must provide to obtain a conviction. A criminal defense attorney will attempt to have the allegations against you dismissed or reduced, in addition to informing you of everything pertinent to your case.
Attorney David W. Olson, with more than 33 years of experience, is here to defend your rights, freedom, job, and everything else that is at risk because of your case arrest. To schedule a complimentary case review, call The Law Offices of David W. Olson at 561-833-8866.
