So I understand what I did was very stupid and over such a petty amount.
I bought some clothes worth $80 last week. I went back into the store and picked up the same items of clothes (off the floor) and went to 'return them' with my receipt from the previous week in return for cash.
I was caught by the store which then called the police and arrested me. I admitted I was guilty.
Because I returned the items in return for cash, its not considered 'shoplifting' but instead Fraud because it is 'obtaining benefit by deception'.
This is a first time arrest and I do not have any records with the police. I now have a court hearing.
I am so stressed because it was such a stupid thing to do.
A) What is the most likely punishment for a first time offence over such a small amount?
B) Will this appear on my police record or criminal record?
C) Will this come up in police checks when looking for a job/renting etc?
Any advice highly appreciated!!
I bought some clothes worth $80 last week. I went back into the store and picked up the same items of clothes (off the floor) and went to 'return them' with my receipt from the previous week in return for cash.
I was caught by the store which then called the police and arrested me. I admitted I was guilty.
Because I returned the items in return for cash, its not considered 'shoplifting' but instead Fraud because it is 'obtaining benefit by deception'.
This is a first time arrest and I do not have any records with the police. I now have a court hearing.
I am so stressed because it was such a stupid thing to do.
A) What is the most likely punishment for a first time offence over such a small amount?
B) Will this appear on my police record or criminal record?
C) Will this come up in police checks when looking for a job/renting etc?
Any advice highly appreciated!!