M
Michelle725
Guest
(State of Florida)
While shopping in a supermarket, I selected 2 cosmetic items totalling $6.57 and placed them in the front section of the shopping cart (where small children often sit). I placed them there because lipsticks fall through the holes in the main portion of the shopping cart. Later during the shopping trip, I rested my bag in that upper section. At checkout, I did not remove my bag from the cart, rather removed my wallet from the bag, and as such forgot to pay for those 2 items. Upon walking out of the store, I was detained. I explained that it was an oversight, and that I intended to pay. This explanation was not accepted and I was forced to sign a confession paper (although I crossed out the word "intent") and was photographed holding the items. I was not allowed a copy of any paperwork. When I complained, I was told the only alternative was to call the police who would take me away in handcuffs. I was tempted to tell them to call the police but did not want to do anything rash. I was also asked who my employer was; I refused to disclose that information and was told, "Don't worry we'll find out."
No criminal charges are being filed but my picture and personal information is now on file with the store and the security company, and I am not allowed back in that store. I am absolutely outraged and humiliated. I can't believe they have the right to photograph me (forcing me to hold the items as if I had stolen them) and not give me any opportunity to include my own statement in their records. I have no criminal record of any kind, not even a speeding ticket, I am 26 years old, a homeowner, and in good financial standing. I am considering consulting a lawyer to have these records expunged but am not sure what my rights are.
Should I pursue this or let it go? Thank you for your reply.
While shopping in a supermarket, I selected 2 cosmetic items totalling $6.57 and placed them in the front section of the shopping cart (where small children often sit). I placed them there because lipsticks fall through the holes in the main portion of the shopping cart. Later during the shopping trip, I rested my bag in that upper section. At checkout, I did not remove my bag from the cart, rather removed my wallet from the bag, and as such forgot to pay for those 2 items. Upon walking out of the store, I was detained. I explained that it was an oversight, and that I intended to pay. This explanation was not accepted and I was forced to sign a confession paper (although I crossed out the word "intent") and was photographed holding the items. I was not allowed a copy of any paperwork. When I complained, I was told the only alternative was to call the police who would take me away in handcuffs. I was tempted to tell them to call the police but did not want to do anything rash. I was also asked who my employer was; I refused to disclose that information and was told, "Don't worry we'll find out."
No criminal charges are being filed but my picture and personal information is now on file with the store and the security company, and I am not allowed back in that store. I am absolutely outraged and humiliated. I can't believe they have the right to photograph me (forcing me to hold the items as if I had stolen them) and not give me any opportunity to include my own statement in their records. I have no criminal record of any kind, not even a speeding ticket, I am 26 years old, a homeowner, and in good financial standing. I am considering consulting a lawyer to have these records expunged but am not sure what my rights are.
Should I pursue this or let it go? Thank you for your reply.