What To Do After A Shoplifting Arrest In Rockland County

An arrest after an alleged shoplifting offense in Rockland County can be highly traumatic. This may be your first arrest, and you may have absolutely no idea what to do. The most important thing to remember in this scenario is that you are not alone. The first hours may seem stressful, but soon you will have an opportunity to connect with friends, family, and professionals ready and willing to assist you. Here are some things you can do in the meantime:

Avoid Becoming Violent 

Although it might be tempting to shove a staff member or security guard after they lay hands on you, it is best to avoid becoming violent when accused of shoplifting. Even if you are being detained under false pretenses, it is usually best to comply. If you become violent, you will likely face much worse consequences – including charges related to assault and other violent crimes. Perhaps most notably, you could face robbery charges instead of shoplifting charges. Robbery involves force or the threat of violence, and penalties are much more severe compared to shoplifting.

Of course, you still have the right to defend yourself if you are being beaten or restrained in a cruel or unusual manner. This is especially true if you are being harmed by a staff member or security guard, as these individuals do not have the same legal authority as police officers to use physical force. 

Do Not Resist Arrest 

If a police officer places you under arrest, resting may lead to further, unnecessary legal consequences. Resisting arrest is a Class A misdemeanor in New York, and you could find yourself behind bars for a year after committing this crime. Remember, your criminal defense attorney can assist you in this situation – and you may not need to spend much time behind bars before release. Resisting arrest is only allowed under rare circumstances, such as incidents involving excessive force. 

Remain Silent 

One of the most effective strategies after a shoplifting arrest is simple: Remain silent. When police tell you that anything you say “can and will” be used against you, they mean it. Prosecutors will carefully go over every word you say after the arrest to find anything that might be incriminating. Remain silent, and you can rob them of this potential “ammunition” in court. Remember, your silence cannot be interpreted as a sign of guilt under the US Constitution.

Request a Meeting with Your Criminal Defense Attorney in Rockland County 

Before you exercise your right to remain silent, clearly express your desire to consult with an attorney before answering any questions. In the United States, every defendant has the right to an attorney – and this is one of your most important protections under the Constitution. Take full advantage of this right by connecting with a qualified, experienced New City theft defense attorney. Choose Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law today – and book a consultation now to get started with a defense strategy.

Sources: 

constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-5/

law.cornell.edu/constitution/sixth_amendment#:~:text=The%20Sixth%20Amendment%20guarantees%20the,charges%20and%20evidence%20against%20you.