Asked 3/17/2016 – El Paso, TX

I was caught shoplifting two lipsticks at Walmart. They told me they weren’t going to call the police, but took my picture and all my information. They told me if the total added up to more than $10 I would be fined. I think the total for the lipsticks is around $10- $12. I was given a number to call in about 3 weeks to see if I would be getting fined. Also, I should expect a letter from them as well.

Answer

Fines can only be assessed by a Judge in a court proceeding. If the number you were given to call regarding “a fine” is a number to a private attorney’s office, it is not a fine you would be paying. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction, so if you receive a ticket from a police agency or notice from a court to appear, contact a local attorney. Until then, go and steal no more.