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I'd like to know what the outcome of a sentence might be.

For the prosecution to prove a case of theft, it is necessary that they prove that the person concerned a) Dishonestly b) appropriated, property that c) belonged to another and d) that they did so with the intention of permanently depriving the owner of that property. In this case you feel that the fact that you hadn't left the shop means that they can't prove b), that there was an appropriation. Goods are 'appropriated' as soon as the person assumes the rights of an owner. The case law regarding shoplifting offences says that that occurs when the goods are removed from the shelves. However, the Crown then need to prove that the person was acting dishonestly. This is where your defence lies. The fact that the goods were not removed from the shop will of course make it harder for the Crown to prove that you were acting dishonestly. This is the type of case where the prosecution are likely to rely on bad character evidence if there have been any similar previous convictions. If, as you say, your actions were not dishonest and that there was an intention to pay for the goods, it is for the Crown to prove otherwise 'beyond a reasonable doubt'. In this case, as you have described events, they will struggle to prove their case against your friend. My assumption is that they are treating this as a joint enterprise and this makes the Crown's job even harder in relation to you. Definitely obtain legal advice and obtain representation before you attend court.

Charged with 2 thefts from 2 shops, when I was detained in the second shop and did not attempt to leave without paying?

You need to report it. Even if the defendant hasn't instigated the messages, if they relate to your involvement in a case as a witness, the sender may be guilty of the offence of witness intimidation or indeed other offences in their own right. The obtaining of the evidence is the job of the police.

What constitutes indirect contact in a restraining order? How can it be proved that the defendant is behind malicious communications?

I'd like to know what the outcome of a sentence might be.

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