From a local CBS news affiliate, a NFL running back was arrested for shoplifting under $500 in small items in a department store.
Running back Joseph Randle was arrested by store security in a Dallas store for the theft of underwear and cologne.
“The items that were stolen were underwear and cologne,” Lt. Jason Jenkins told a radio station. This seemed to be confirmed by online gossip site TMZ which reported that the Cowboy had allegedly stolen Gucci cologne, as well as a pair of Polo underwear. At least this shoplifter is a classy sort.
A local sports station confirmed that the NFL player cooperated and did not attempt to run. He was booked into the Frisco City Detention Center and released early the next morning on bail.
Ironically, this man can definitely afford underwear and cologne. The reserve running back is making just under $500,000 this year and is signed to a four-year, $2.35 million dollar contract! He just had his best game of the year, rushing for over 50 yards on just 5 carries. As far as any discipline coming from his team or the NFL, at the time of this writing there has been no word.
LEGAL ANALYSIS
Unlike Texas, in Florida there are only two types of misdemeanors and three types of felony charges for theft. Theft charges can be found under Florida Statute 812.014.
Depending on the value of the items stolen and/or any prior theft convictions for Mr. Randle in Florida this case could be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. If this was his first theft offense and the items were worth under $300 (as seems likely), this would be a mere misdemeanor. If the items were worth over $300 or he has prior theft convictions, it is possible that the shoplifting would be elevated to a third-degree felony. That is punishable by up to five years prison!
If Mr. Randle has no priors, he would seem to be a prime candidate for a Florida pre-trial intervention program (“PTI”). This would consist of a series of things he would have to do (such as community service and a shoplifter’s awareness class) that if succesfull, his charges would be dismissed.
As for now, it will be interesting to see what decision he makes and how it affects his professional future.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for shoplifting or grand theft? Then call the Clearwater criminal defense lawyers of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today! These former prosecutors are experienced trial attorneys.
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