Unsure of Criminal Record... will I be refused entry to US?

[Haribo1981]

Hi, I am due to go to the U.S. for a month in June and have started to worry about whether I have a criminal record or not. A couple of years ago I was caught without a valid ticket on a train, paying for a cheaper monthly ticket instead of the full price. I was sent a Summons for a Magistrate's court date, pleaded guilty and given a fine of �50 plus the difference in tickets (all of �5!!) and court costs. I'm unsure whether I have a criminal record for such a minor offence though I was told it may constitute fraud.
I have never been arrested for any other offence, just this fine. Would I be free to travel under the VWP or would they pull me up on this past offence?

[jno]

I'd be amazed if anyone in the USA knows about this disgraceful record of yours; it's not Al Capone, is it... You're supposed to say on the visa waiver form if you've been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude, and I don't think having the wrong train ticket could possibly be seen that way. So I'd just hop on the plane, fill out the form, say you haven't been convicted of any such crime, and try not to look too guilty. Go for it!

[Booldawg]

Agree with jno - the database that the UK share with the US only lists people with criminal records such as drugs/violence offences.

[Buenchico]

You've been convicted by a court, therefore you have a criminal record. However, US immigration authorities don't have direct access to UK criminal records, so you'll have no problem if you 'forget' your record and enter the USA under the Visa Waiver Program. (The UK does pass on information about serious offences, such as drug smuggling, or suspected terrorists but you'll certainly have nothing to worry about. It's too late to get a visa anyway; the process takes several months).

Chris

[munchie63]

the waiver asks about crimes of moral turpitude. your train 'crime' won't come into this.
give an honest tick to that question on the waiver.

when you finally get your turn at the CPB gate, thye'll ask where your staying, reason for visit, and if you have any food or more then $10,000 on you.
be polite and you'll be fine.

[Haribo1981]

thank you all very much for your answers!!! V helpful