I was shoplifting at a grocery store and the manager got my tag number, will I get arrested?

Question

I was shoplifting at a grocery store and the manager got my tag number, will I get arrested?

Answer

It is very possible. It is also possible that a police officer, or someone else, will try to question you about this incident before you are arrested.

We don't know whether any witness actually saw YOU do the shoplifting. If the only evidence is that your manager got your tag number then they do not have enough evidence to prove that you were the one shoplifting. All of that could change if you say anything. Admitting to the shoplifting, or even that you were there or that no one else drives your car, could be enough to get the case to stick against you. Of course, if someone can actually testify that they saw you do the shoplifting then that is another matter.

Do yourself some favors. First, do not talk to ANYONE about this case (except a lawyer), including posting things online or on social media. Second, do not return to the store; they may ban you from the store and returning to the store might result in a trespassing charge. Finally, if anyone does try to talk to you about this incident immediately tell them that you wish to invoke your right to remain silent, that you want a lawyer, and that you refuse to answer any questions.