Judge accepts First Offender plea for theft; probation, anti-theft class and community service ordered

Robert Wyatt Ross pleaded guilty under the First Offender Act to a 2020 shoplifting charge and was sentenced Aug. 28 in Clayton County State Court, where the judge accepted a negotiated disposition that emphasized rehabilitation.
The state said Ross removed price tags and attempted to deprive a Walmart of the value of a Lego set on Dec. 30, 2020, at the Ellenwood location, 2940 Anvil Block Road. Prosecutors recommended 12 months with two days to serve, balance probated, 40 hours of community service and completion of an anti-theft class; they indicated they "would not object to early termination upon completion." Defense counsel said Ross had no more serious prior record, and the court accepted the plea under the First Offender statute.
Why it matters: A First Offender disposition allows defendants who complete supervision to avoid a conviction appearing on their record under certain circumstances, a potentially meaningful outcome for long-term employment prospects.
Judge Tammy Long Hayward explained the effect of a First Offender plea, telling Ross that successful completion of the sentence conditions can prevent the matter from appearing as a conviction. Ross was directed to report to probation intake for immediate processing; the judge warned that failing to report or comply with probation conditions can lead to rearrest.
The court reiterated a procedural admonition, noting that retailers often have multiple cameras and that anti-theft measures and probation supervision are intended to deter future offenses. Probation will supervise the 12-month term and the anti-theft class; completion may lead to early termination of probation.