Asked 5/23/2016 – Mansfield, TX

I was sexually assaulted early March and have since not been myself. My grades slipped, I stopped going to class, and started acting out. Currently in the middle of the University investigation.

I got caught shoplifting and was arrested.

I’m a 20-year-old Baylor student, it was a class b misdemeanor, less than $750, first time offender, I had a $500 bail and no tickets. I’m terrified I’ve ruined my life, and my summer plans for traveling to Spain (something I’ve already planned for months) will I still be able to go if I ask permission/give advanced notice/I do a PTD program?

Answer

You have 2 issues; one is with the Court where your criminal case is pending and the other is with (or will be) with border patrol/customs. If the Judge in your theft case says you can go to Spain, then you can go to Spain. Have your attorney talk with the Court about your travel plans. Regardless of what the Judge says, however, this case will come up with a Customs Agent when you present your passport and attempt to leave the country. This will probably cause at least your temporary detention. I have clients facing a similar circumstance, but talk with your attorney about his/her advice.

The larger question is your current mental state. I empathize with your situation (I have daughters and granddaughters), but I also recognize that I can’t fully imagine what you are going through emotionally. YOU have to recognize, one thing: you did not do anything wrong. You might have trusted somebody, but that is not your fault. You have not ruined your life, you do not deserve any bad things that happen to you and you are no less a person than what you were before the incident. You will get past this period in your life, and if you are in college, I’ll bet you have people who love, care and support you, and will be there you through thick and thin. Quit hurting yourself, remember you are special, and begin the rest of your live.