Expert: Mark C. Robins - 8/24/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I really really need some help.  Last year I was involved in a really stupid thing...i shoplifted.  The police let me go but gave me a POA trespass to property act ticket for 70$.  I know this is like a speeding ticket, is a minor offence and does not result in a criminal record.  However, I have contact the CBP and they said I need to give them supporting documentation that my charge was dropped to a lesser charge.  How do they know that it was dropped to a lesser charge? what information does the border have of me?  Or are they just saying that?  I'm planning my honeymoon and I need to know if I am able to travel having this "provincial minor offence" on my record. No one knows of this, not even my fiance or parents.  Please help!!!! Am I safe to travel???????

ANSWER: Immigration and entry polices are discretionary to the country you are trying to enter, I suggest you contact that country and ask them.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Okay, but what would be preventing me? if a trespass ticket is like a speeding ticket, everyone gets a speeding ticket and is able to travel.  so what is the difference? I thought that you can travel on the basis that you do not have a criminal record...i don't.

Answer
Each country has the right to restrict entry and they do not have top provide a reason, again I suggest you contact the immigration department for the country your are planning to travel to to get more info on whether they have an issue with your convictions.