First-Time Offender Shoplifting

First-Time Offender, Shoplifting Program

As an outgrowth of the Victim Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP), the prosecuting attorneys and Northern Community Mediation (NCM)  work collaboratively in the implementation of the First-Time Offender, Shoplifting Program. If the offender successfully completes the requirements of the program, NCM notifies the prosecutor’s office as such, and no charges are brought against the offender.

Requirements of the program are two-phased. The offender must complete both phases of the program. The first phase involves the victim. If the victim is willing, the offender has a face-to-face meeting with that individual. The offender is also required to write letters of apology: one to the victim and a second one to his/her parents if the offender is a minor. The offender must also pay restitution as ordered by the court.

Upon successful completion of the first phase of the program, the offender advances to the second phase. This includes fulfilling at least eight hours of community service, watching an instructional DVD, discussing the impact of shoplifting with his/her parents (if the offender is a  minor), demonstrating remorse, and paying a nominal fee.

It is important to note that the First-Time Offender, Shoplifting Program is a matter of privilege and not entitlement. If an offender does not meet the standards of the program, his/her case is turned back to the prosecutor’s office for review of the authorization of charges.