Retail Fraud, Not Caught, No Cops
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Michigan
I was in Target about a day ago shopping for a computer bag. I found a bag I liked and went to look for wallets. I didnt have a cart so I picked up the wallet and put it inside the computer bag. The bag cost $29 and the wallet $14. I continued shopping for a while than went to the cashier. I paid for the computer bag and forgot all about the wallet. I walked out of the store, the buzzer went off, there was a security guy standing right at the door- I showed him my receipt- he looked at my items- and let me go. A day later I am unpacking my items and I find the wallet. What should I do?? I put it in the bag right in the middle of the store- its not that I even tried to hide the fact that I was placing it in the bag- I intended to pay for it! But here are my questios
1. if I go there and try to return it now- will they charge me
2. Should I risk going back (I live in a college town they might get this all the time)- I have a great job and I would hate to loose it if this gets on my record
3. I used my credit card to pay for the other items- someone told me they can trace me using the information from my card or from my license plate..seriously? For $14?
4. Should I expect the civil charge papers in my mail- or to be prosecuted even though I was never caught at the store (but I'm sure the camera's in the store caught it). PLEASE HELP !!!
I would like more than anything to go back and pay for the dang wallet but I'm afraid of being charged once i get there!!!
Re: Retail Fraud, Not Caught, No Cops
I very much doubt that they will try to prosecute you if you go back to the store and pay for the item. But if you're worried, send them a money order with an anonymous, explanatory letter, and save a copy of the letter and money order receipt for your records.