A LAWYER has revealed the terrible legal problems you could face if you are caught stealing from a Walmart store.
Though the penalties vary, the store has eyes in places shoppers wouldn’t guess.
If a person is caught stealing merchandise from Walmart, “a loss prevention agent can reasonably hold them in the store until the police arrive,” according to the Emergency 911 Advocate law firm.
The store has loss prevention teams in each store that specialize in catching shoplifters, the site said.
These extra eyes are reportedly both on the ground and in the back looking at the cameras.
Officers are regularly on the lookout for people who scan some items at the automatic checkout or cash register, but intentionally leave some in the cart.
Some customers have even dared to stop by the checkout and pay nothing, the site claims.
This is another case where loss prevention would come in.
Walmart pursues thieves, the site warns.
Still, the site says a lawyer can make a difference,
“A conviction for theft can not only lead to jail, but it can severely limit your job options and impact your future opportunities,” the site states.
“An experienced theft lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and how to fight them.”
“An attorney can also provide you with invaluable advice on your eligibility for deferred adjudication or preliminary diversion programs in your county,” continued the legal site.
They also urged people to seek attorney immediately, as these legal programs follow strict deadlines.
The 911 attorney operates under Texas law, which means the theft can be anything from a Class C felony to a first degree felony.
The severity of the sentence depends on the value of the stolen property and the criminal record of the accused.
For the cost of goods under $ 100 and a clean criminal record, a Class C felony is the most serious charge available.
A Class C carries a maximum punishment of a $ 500 fine, according to the legal site.
More than $ 100 in stolen merchandise or a previous theft conviction can mean a Class B or A crime with possible imprisonment.