You can be charged with theft without evidence because you can control or transfer property without a paper trail. For example, you might steal a car and leave it with a junkyard that proceeds to break the vehicle into pieces.
In the United States, citizens value their civil liberties and constitutional rights and don't appreciate submitting to unlawful seizure and search. Because of this, there has been a legal trend of filing a lawsuit against a retail store anytime a customer is wrongfully accused of shoplifting.
Do employees have the right to sue if they're accused of stealing? Yes, employees can also file a claim against an employer for being wrongfully harassed or fired because of false accusations of stealing.
After being accused of theft at work you could be facing two types of consequences: termination and/or criminal prosecution. Obviously, accusations of theft at work are extremely serious and could not only affect your immediate livelihood, but also your employment for years to come.
Here are some ways that you can protect yourself in this situation:Realize the seriousness of the accusations. ... Understand the cost of a defense. ... Intervene before charges. ... Take no action. ... Gather any physical evidence and documents. ... Obtain witness contact information. ... Investigation. ... Plea bargain.
5 Steps To Take if You're Wrongfully Accused of TheftStep 1: Remain Calm. You may already be panicking, but try to stay calm. ... Step 2: Look for Evidence. ... Step 3: Understand Your Rights. ... Step 4: Don't Talk. ... Step 5: Work With a Lawyer.
If the retailer accuses you of shoplifting, he or she may detain you and call the police. (Don't self incriminate when talking to the police) The police will write you a citation. The retailer will likely ask you not to return to the store again.
You could sue them for libel or slander. Technically these crimes are torts rather than criminal offences so an arrest wouldn't occur.
If you are accused of something you didn't do, remain silent, consult a lawyer, collect evidence, avoid contacting your abuser, and obey the court.
If your employer accuses you of theft or fraud, you should speak to a criminal defence lawyer straightaway. Being convicted of such a crime can have a devastating impact on your life, potentially resulting in the loss of your job, a jail sentence and difficulty securing future employment.
The court can charge you with a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount of money taken. You may also face additional penalties and fines for subsequent charges. If you stole property valued at less than $2,000, the court will likely charge you with a misdemeanor.
Many companies have summarily dismissed employees for menial theft and, after a lengthy legal process, have suffered losses due to compensation for unfair dismissal and the reinstatement of employees.