Question from a reader:
My friend has been called by the police for shoplifting, and I bought stolen goods from that friend just once, seven months ago. I suspected it might be stolen, but I went ahead with the transaction, and now I deeply regret it. There may be DMs related to the transaction left. In this case, is there a
possibility that I could also be called by the police? I am anxious and troubled.

Legal Perspectives on Shoplifting and Stolen Goods

Recently, it seems you are facing a situation where your friend is being called by the police for shoplifting. If you have also bought stolen goods from that friend, it’s natural to be concerned about it. As someone studying psychology, I feel that such cases often involve complex emotions. This time, I would like to discuss it from a legal perspective.

Shoplifting and Its Legal Aspects

First, let’s clarify what the act of shoplifting is from a legal standpoint. Shoplifting refers to the act of taking products from a store without permission, which clearly constitutes theft. Theft, under criminal law, refers to the illegal possession of someone else’s property, and depending on the circumstances, it can lead to serious legal consequences. When shoplifting is discovered, not only the person who committed the act but also those involved may face legal repercussions. Particularly, if you purchased stolen goods, that act could also violate the law, so caution is necessary.

Risks of Buying Stolen Goods

In your situation, the act of buying stolen goods from your friend could potentially fall under the category of “related crimes involving stolen goods.” This crime applies when someone knowingly buys stolen goods or engages in a transaction while suspecting that the goods may be stolen. Specifically, this is defined in Article 254 of the Penal Code. If there are DMs from that transaction left, there is a possibility that the police could call you. However, whether an actual investigation takes place depends on various factors, such as whether the police know your name or if your friend mentioned your name.

Concerns and Anxiety

Honestly, it’s natural to feel anxious when placed in such a situation. I also worry that I might get involved when my friends are in trouble. However, it’s important to think calmly. I believe you should start by organizing the facts of the situation. If those DMs could serve as unfavorable evidence against you, you will need to consider how to deal with that. Psychologically speaking, it’s natural to harbor such anxieties, but there’s no need to blame yourself. Humans make mistakes, and what’s important is how you act afterward.

Should You Seek Legal Advice?

Here’s a suggestion: if your worries persist, I recommend seeking legal advice. Particularly, talking to a specialized lawyer might help alleviate your anxiety. A lawyer can understand your situation and provide appropriate advice. Especially when dealing with transactions involving stolen goods, it’s crucial to know how to act legally for your own protection. It might also be wise to think about what to say in case you are called by the police.

Psychological Insights

At this point, I’d like to incorporate my psychological perspective a bit. People sometimes struggle with feelings of guilt. Your regret about buying stolen goods from your friend is evidence that you are contemplating the ethical implications for yourself. The conflict regarding personal responsibility and morality is a very important element in human relationships. Inside, there’s a fear of “what if I get caught,” while at the same time, there’s a desire to help your friend. This intertwining of emotions is commonly seen in relationships and is a fascinating theme from a psychological standpoint. Considering how your actions affect others is part of personal growth.

Conclusion

The situation where your friend is called by the police for shoplifting could potentially affect you as well. If you have purchased stolen goods, it’s important to understand how that act is legally evaluated. And if you have concerns or anxieties, please do not hesitate to seek help from professionals. Finally, regardless of the situation, it’s possible to turn it into an opportunity for self-reflection and learning. We are beings that continuously grow, and it’s essential to learn from past mistakes to build better relationships. For that, I feel it’s important to calmly assess the situation and take responsibility for your actions.