I received a tresspassing ticket that was the result from petty theft ($15 ear-rings) about 10 years ago?

Question

The ticket given to me was just a fine and nothing more just like the cop said, .. however when i go for my interview with the consulate i'm concerned whether or not this will delay my application because shoplifting is a crime of moral turpitude, even though i wasn't arrested or charged for it i did commit it, will this cause any problems? thanks.

Answer 1

The best thing you can do is come clean about it, and bring lots of good references.  Concealing the ticket can land you in much greater trouble later, whereas being upfront about it means they can take the age of the offense, your glowing references since then, etcetera into account.  It's a toss-up as to whether it will affect your chances this way, but if they discover it on background check then you'll definitely be in hot water.

Answer 2

It may cause problems, yes. A crime is a crime, and companies and organizations are very interested in applicants' backgrounds. If you have crimes such as theft on your record, they may feel like they cannot trust you.

Answer 3

This will likely NOT be considered a crime of moral turpitude.  You should be honest, however -- lying and being caught could ruin the whole thing entirely.

I must say I'm not crazy about a thief coming into our country.