Shoplifting in tkmaxx

[Dedolapo]

I was caught shoplifting and I was taken to the security room which I was told I am on cctv.i didn't agree at first and then the police came and I later agreed as I was told it won't get to court if I do so.The police took my details and then a copy of the cctv.can this be a court case?

[des8]

Hi and welcome.
It might do, but can't say more as the details you supply are rather sparse!
Was this a first offence?
How much was involved?
As during this conversation with the police you were asked to admit the offence, this was an interview.
Was the police interview carried out under caution?
Were you advised of your right to be accompanied by a solicitor or to obtain legal advice?
Failure on the part of the police may make any evidence contained in the interview inadmissible

[Dedolapo]

Yes it's a first offense and it is about 50 pounds.the first man told me to admit and then they won't have to take it up and immediately I did, he told me the second says he is going to charge me and he then cautioned me but he never mentioned anything like getting a solicitor or legal advice.Is it possible I get a letter at home from the court?

[des8]

So one police officer said "admit the offence and there will be no further action"
You admitted the offence
Second police officer says he is going to charge you and then cautions you.
Did he actually say " “You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.” or did he say you will be given a caution.

In any case most unlikely you will have a court appearance.
Very often for such a minor offence you will just receive a warning from the officers attending the scene, but occasionally you will receive a formal caution.
The courts will not be sending anything, but you may receive mail from the police.

[Dedolapo]

Thank you for the reply..so I think he said something like this...you do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.”..does this mean it might be a court case?I am so scared and disturbed being an international student and I don't want to loose my permit and have a criminal record...I won't ever get myself in this kind of mess again..have been having sleepless night as I don't know what can be the worst outcome of this?

[des8]

Unlikely you will be taken to court over such a small amount, unless perhaps there are other circumstances e.g. a spate of thefts in this area and the authorities are looking to send a warning to shoplifters.
If you were interviewed under caution without being told your right to obtain legal advice or be accompanied by a solicitor the police may have acted incorrectly
Instead of a court summons you might receive a caution,
If you do unfortunately receive a court summons I would suggest you consult a solicitor
Good luck

[Dedolapo]

And wat could be the worst case scenario if it's court?Do you have an idea of this please?

[des8]

Most unlikely to end in court as the offence is so small.
Most probably a caution, or a fixed penalty notice of anything upto £80.

If it did go to court there are too many factors that are taken into account to be able to guess the likely penalty
Sentencing guidelines are here if you want to scare yourself: https://www.sentencingcouncil.org.uk...shop-or-stall/

[Dedolapo]

Okay thanks...and what about the RLP paper that was given to me?

[ostell]

You ignore RLP and all the letters they will be sending. There are samples of these letters on this site