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Expert: Jack Toomey - 2/12/2006


Question
How can I find out if Dumpster Diving is illegal where I live: Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, USA?  Specifically, I went dumpster diving at a Wendy's restaurant for some promotional cups.  There weren't any no trespassing signs or locks.  The director of my graduate program says he will have to put me on probation if this was illegal.  If it is, is it a felony or misdemeanor?  Thank you.

Answer
Don't you think that it would be easier to call the police in Cleveland and ask them what the law is concerning the "crime" that you are afraid that you committed?  There are fifty states with fifty sets of laws and to top it off I have never heard of "dumpster diving" so it couldn't be that serious.

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Jack Toomey

Expertise

Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. Only a judge could answer a question like that. I am also NOT a probation officer or parole officer so I cannot answer questions that relate to parole or probation. Also please keep in mind that every state has different laws. If you are planning to ask a question about a specific law or criminal charge that pertains to your state only it could be difficult to answer. I also cannot give you legal advice on what to do or what not to do in court. Retired police officer with 26 years experience. Worked in the patrol division as well as over 14 years in the detective bureau. Investigated a wide range of crime such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, fraud, missing persons, and other very sensitive crimes. I am available to answer your questions about criminal law and especially as it applies to police work. I taught at the police academy for several years and am especially knowledgeable about search and seizure. Any question about criminal law is welcome! Please don't ask me to do your homework or ask me questions that obviously come from your teachers or professors. I also do not do online interviews or surveys. Young people need to gain face to face interviewing skills. Local police officers usually are very agreeable to assist in these assignments.

Experience

I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience. I investigated almost every type of crime including murder, rape, theft, missing persons, fraud, and domestic abuse. I am very knowledgeable about search and seizure and taught at the police academy for several years on a variety of subjects. I can answer questions that a lot of attorneys cannot since they do not have "street experience".

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science degree in Criminolgy from the University of Maryland.

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