Petit Theft – Not Guilty

Case

State v. S.J.; Case No. 562008MM004842 (St. Lucie County)

Category

Theft and Property Crimes

Arresting Agency

St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office

Result

Acquitted by Jury

Our client and her friend arrived at the Big Lots store in Fort Pierce, Florida at approximately nine o’clock in the evening. Our client’s friend decided to steal a bunch of DVDs and put them into her bag. The friend gets caught trying to exit the store, and a tug-of-war struggle ensues between the friend and the store manager. After realizing what was happening, our client rushed over to diffuse the situation. She grabbed the bag and threw the DVDs onto the floor. This act was misinterpreted as trying to help the friend. Our client was arrested for Petit Theft and Resisting a Merchant.  Our client wanted to take her case to trial as she had not committed any crimes.  The defense announced ready for trial and picked a jury.  After hearing our arguments, the jury returned with a verdict of NOT GUILTY on both counts.