Shoplifting in Fairfax
In Virginia, if you are charged with shoplifting, you should take steps to ensure that your rights are protected. Shoplifting is categorized as a larceny, and a crime of moral turpitude – which may affect your employment, your credit, and your ability to get admission into college or graduate school.
If it is your first shoplifting charge, you may be able to take advantage of the Opportunities, Alternatives, and Resources (OAR) program. The OAR program allows individuals to have their case dismissed if they perform community service, and take an anti-theft class. If you are eligible for the program, the Judge will call your name to be interviewed by a member of the OAR staff. If you are eligible and decide to participate, the Court will set another date for you to return in about six months. During the six month period, you must complete the required community service, complete the anti-theft class, and stay out of trouble. If the all the paperwork has been completed, at your final court date, the case will be dismissed.
If you are facing a shoplifting charge in Fairfax County, your rights may be waived if you don’t protect them. Take whatever steps are necessary to make sure you understand the OAR program and how to proceed.