Third degree retail fraud in Michigan?
The other day, I was at the mall with my young son. He had grabbed a ring off the counter (it was ) and I didn’t notice it. He told me that he had to go to the bathroom and so I hurried out of the store since the food court was the nearest restroom that I knew of. I do not go to that mall often and we live overseas with the military so I didn’t want to wander around looking for a restroom.
My son was my main priority and just getting him to the bathroom so he didn’t wet all over himself and the stroller.
After I left, someone from Loss Prevention came and told me that I had something in my stroller that was unpaid for. I realized it was the ring which had slipped down the side of my son’s body.
I apologized and explained that I did not realize he had it and that it was not my intent to take anything without paying for it. I told him how we are potty training and that my son often waits for the last minute to tell us thus almost wetting himself.
None the less, he told me he would have to charge me with Retail Fraud in the Third Degree. He set up a court date for me as well.
I am unsure if I should plead Guilty or Non Guilty as yes, it was taken even though it was not my intent.
My questions are will the judge allow me to explain mysefl? Do I need to get a lawyer?
I am a prior police officer with the Army and my husband is currently stationed overseas. We were just back here visiting my family and we are set to leave to fly back to our base in Japan the 15th of December.
I can not belive the LPO was not more understanding. I have no record whatsover and in fact, I have a Top Secret Clearance. I was hoping to work for DOD soon but with this on my record, I’m afraid that might not happen.
The LPO told me that if I plead guilty, it will be over quicker however, I feel that I truly didn’t intend for anything like this to happen…
Thank you.
