I committed a crime during nursing school

[Josh4010]

I am In a RN bridge program. I am about to be in my 2nd semester. I live in Alabama. Please do not bash me for this. I feel pretty ashamed. I do not consider myself to be a bad person, I have maybe one or 2 speeding tickets on my record. Anyways, here’s the story.

 I used to work in a ER but was furloughed due to the COVID pandemic. They had a low patient census and had to furlough me. I got unemployment and decided to stay on it to get through nursing school.

I was getting groceries at Walmart and was trying to get food for my family. I went through the self checkout and the total price was a lot higher then Iexpected. I intentionally did not scan some groceries and paid for the otherhalf. I paid for about $34 worth and theitems that were unscanned added up about $42 I believe. 
 

I proceeded out the door and wasstopped by security who pulled me into a surveillance type room. They got my information and called the police. I told them the truth about what I was doing. The police showed up. Walmart had a policy if the item totals more than $40 then the policy is to have you arrested. So the police arrested and took me to jail. 

 My charge is for petty theft 4th degree misdemeanor. I feel pretty bad about myself for this. I have worked very hard to get into the program I am now I feel like I have ruined it all. I receive $275 a week on unemployment. I have a 4 year old daughter whom I was mainly trying to get food for. My wife is employed but makesjust enough money to pay our rent. I pay the bills and groceries with my $275 aweek. I have attempted to get foodstamps, but we are just over the cut off mark of our combined income. 
 

I knew what I was doing was wrong, but I decided to do it anyway. I made a pretty foolish mistake that I can not believe I did. Do you know if I will still have achance to take my NCLEX?

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Moved to Licensure: Criminal History forum

[Sour Lemon]

You may be interested in browsing this section of the site:

https://allnurses.com/licensure-criminal-history-c171/

I have no personal experience, but it seems like recent criminal activity is among the most difficult things to overcome. On top of that, theft is a charge that suggests an individual should not have easy access to vulnerable individuals.

It might be a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in BON issues. Along with being allowed to take NCLEX, you'll want to maximize your chances of being employable.

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

Just want to wish you luck. These times have found people in situations they never could have imagined. Unfortunately, your repercussions may extend beyond what others may experience, I hope that things work out for you and your family.