Retail Theft Databases

[repented/forgiven]

My question involves a background check in the State of: California/Nevada

Hello there. Thank you for being here and providing support to people. It is much appreciated.

Here's my situation: I am not trying to justify myself but I want to say that I was never in trouble before or since this time I am about to describe. I truly did turn my life around and have gone on to lead a very respectful and respectable life.
In 1992/1993 I worked for Ross Dress for Less in Nevada. At the time, I was in a very physically abusive relationship. My bf at the time talked me into stealing some items from the store. Frankly, I was afraid of him, and worse, I was afraid of being alone. I did it. I also got caught and here's what happened:
I was taken into a locked room with two male employees, one female employee. The door was locked and I was told to confess or I would be arrested. I wanted to call my parents, and they refused to let me use the phone. (I was not a minor but I was definitely young, only 24, and had led a sheltered life. I knew what I had done was wrong and I was scared to death.
I was kept in that room for 3 hours while I was interrogated by store security. I was nearly hysterical and the female employee restrained me in a chair. I was given a piece of paper and a pen to write down a list of all the items I had taken. I did so. Additionally, they asked about variouis other items and although I did NOT take those items, I confessed anyway. I was young, terrified and without any real resources.
They took my signed "confession" and said I was fired but that they would not be prosecuting me with the police. I left the store and never heard a thing.
I was never arrested by police, and I was never charged with any crime.

In time, I left the idiot bf, and took control of my own life, and responsibility for it. I have never had a single brush with the law, and have never done anything illegal since then. It has been 15 years. I even own my own small business.

Here's my question: I recently heard about the retail theft databases. I had no idea this was so extensive. Since the economy is so bad, I want to go out and find a job in retail to supplement my income. Will my name be in this database? I now live in California.

I am terrified of something from my distant past haunting me. I have worked hard to acheive a decent life, surrounded by decent people (who do not commit crimes) and to live respectably and respectfully toward others. If I apply for a retail job and this comes up, I will be devastated. I appreciate you taking the time to read this.

God bless you.
Sincerely,
One Who Really Was Sorry She Did It and Never Did It Again

[cyjeff]

The typical record stays in the database around 7 years... however, there is really no guarantee.

It is not a federally regulated database... retailers own it themselves.

I would apply and be honest. Explain the circumstances and the length of time.

Everyone makes mistakes. You may have a shot with this one.