It is our nature to inquire about cost. When purchasing a car, home, groceries, or even a night out at a restaurant, we want to know the cost associated with the goods or services. That is a representation of monetary cost or value, but there is a non-monetary cost associated with a criminal charge and conviction as well.

In 2002, a popular Hollywood actress was charged and convicted of shoplifting in Los Angeles, California. During the commission of her offense, she had made a purchase, but then placed additional items in her bag before leaving the very popular Saks Fifth Avenue store. Her defense; however, claimed that she believed that she had an “open” account while she shopped and she would simply be charged later. In the end, a jury of six men and six women found her guilty of felony shoplifting.