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Im in probation in another county and I got caught with petty theft, what might happen to me?
Anonymous3 views3 answers
Just last month I got caught stealing $200 worth of stuff at walmart. Im on probation in another county. When they caught me they let me go. I got a letter I bthe mail saying they are pressing charges and I have to appear in court in a month. Im on a 5 year probation term for grand theft auto. I did 6months in county jail. I have a son who will be 2 in a month and I have a great paying job. What will happen to me or might happen?
This depends on several factors: whether you have any other theft priors, whether you've violated probation before, the specific terms of your sentence/probation and the dedication and ability of your attorney.
Mr. Loncar's answer is about as specific as one can be at this juncture: it matters.
You ought to hire an attorney to see if you can get the shoplifting charge dismissed or reduced first, as its disposition will affect whether probation revocation proceedings are initiated.
The California Supreme Court has stated that "prosecutors [should not] routinely disregard our recent admonition that the most desirable method of handling such cases is to refrain from initiating revocation proceedings until the related criminal prosecution is completed." People v. Belleci (1979) 24 Cal.3d 879, 888, fn. 7 [emphasis added], citing People v. Coleman (1975) 13 Cal.3d 867, 896.
In the shoplifting case, you may be able to file a motion for civil compromise to have the case dismissed, which will nicely halt any probation violation claim.
My colleagues are correct. You need an attorney. Manteca can be tough on petty thefts where there is a prior theft charge. You violated the terms of your probation. Get an attorney and do what you can to get a civil compromise from Walmart. You are potentially looking at some jail.
