I Got caught shoplifting

[Rushhour48]

I was at Tesco and I stole an item that was only worth £1 and I don't know why I did it. I got caught and they took my name, address and a picture for the database. I paid for the item and gave it to the guard to keep (it was food). Will I be sent RLP? I'm only 16 and I'm shaking because I don't want my mother to find out. The police weren't called and I was banned for 6 months. What's going to happen?

[ostell]

Re: I Got caught shoplifting

The only thing that will happen is that you may get letters from RLP or another "security" company demanding money with menaces. Ignore, there is no legal reason to pay. There has been no loss, despite what the letter says, as the security staff were doing what they were being paid to do and would have been paid anyway even if they had not found you.

Did you get the item back or did the guard keep it?

Take this as a slap on the wrist and don't do it again.

To the others. Is 16 regarded as underage? Should Tesco be taking photographs for distribution?

[des8]

Re: I Got caught shoplifting

Hi and welcome

As you paid for the item it seems that they have used their discretion and will not be pursuing the matter further.

Whether or not it is questionable for T to photograph a 16 year old is a bit academic as the OP certainly isn't going to question it.

As the amount was so small it is possible that the manager won't bother with all the paperwork involved and that DWF (Tesco no longer refer incidents to RLP) will not be involved.
If DWF are involved they should not write to your mother.
However other civil recovery firms have been known to write to a young persons's parents using the excuse they were concerned for the moral safety of the young person.
(a bit ironic seeing that those firms are among the most immoral IMO)

Obviously I don't know your background, but as a rule of thumb I would suggest you mention the incident to your mother.
Yes, initially she will be disappointed, but will soon realise this is not the crime of the century.
It is a very minor incident, but I trust she will support you .
Trying to keep this secret will be stressful for you. wondering if DWF are going to write or not.
If they do, will your mother see your mail and ask questions?
A quick word with Mum will ease all these problems, and if DWP do write you can face them off together.