A shoplifting accusation does not always lead to immediate criminal charges. In some cases, a store may take time to investigate what happened before reporting the incident to law enforcement.
Here are some reasons charges may not appear until days or even weeks later and what you can expect if that happens.
Stores may take time to investigate
A delay often begins with the store’s own investigation. Before contacting police, many retailers review surveillance footage, compare inventory records and examine receipts to determine what happened. Loss prevention employees may also speak with witnesses or gather other information if they believe someone stole merchandise.
Taking time to investigate does not necessarily mean the store has decided to let the matter go. Instead, it may be trying to collect enough information before deciding whether to report the incident.
Police typically become involved after a report is made
Law enforcement generally becomes involved only after the store reports the alleged theft. Once officers receive the retailer’s information, they may review the evidence, follow up on the investigation or decide whether additional steps are necessary before filing charges.
New Jersey law does not require prosecutors to file shoplifting charges immediately after an alleged incident. Depending on the offense, they generally have anywhere from one year to five years to begin a case, which means a delay of several days or weeks is not unusual by itself.
As a result, you may receive a summons or learn about the charges well after the alleged incident.
Be prepared if charges come later
If someone contacts you days or weeks after an alleged shoplifting incident, take the situation seriously instead of assuming it has resolved itself. Before responding to questions or making statements, it can help to review the circumstances with an attorney who can help you decide the best way to address the allegations.