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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jun 2010
    Posts
    2

    Default Worried About Possible Return Fraud Accusation

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: California.

    I recently returned items worth $35 at a Ross Store in California. The clerk accused me of returning items that I had not bought at the store, and called her manager over before she completed the transaction. She also accused me of trying to return used items.

    The manager confirmed the return, and allowed it to go through, but I am worried about possibly being accused or charged with some kind of return or retail fraud, as I paid and money was reimbursed on my credit card.

    I completely dispute the "returning used goods" accusation -- the item in question had been discounted for me at the original sale because it was damaged. (For the subsequent return, the return price refunded to me reflected the discounted price.)

    As for the "returning of goods the store didn't sell," I dispute that, too. I usually cut off tags of clothing I purchase and if the outfits don't coordinate the way I would like, I will match the tag back to the outfit and return it, along with the receipt. It's possible that I could have attached the wrong tag to the item, but I don't think so. The clerk did seem to think so, remarking "We don't even have this belt in stock." I just find that so hard to believe because Ross Stores have so many items, sometimes just a few of each item.

    I am wondering what to do at this point. The return has been credited to my card, but I worry of a letter or some other criminal charge in the future. Others on these forums in similar situations seem to have shared that a letter may come in the mail accusing you of retail fraud.

    Should I cancel my credit card? I don't want to hurt my credit rating, but I don't want to be accused of anything later. I figure maybe they would figure that without evidence, it wouldn't be worth it trying to find me if my credit card is canceled.

    What kind of criminal charge could this have? I always thought any fraud had to have intent. I am worried that the burden of proof against intent would be on my side.

    Thanks for your help.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Location
    Toledo, OH
    Posts
    16,307

    Default Re: Worried About Possible Return Fraud Accusation

    If the manager approved the return, that's it. It's done, and there's not going to be a surprise in your mailbox.

    Relax.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jun 2010
    Posts
    2

    Default Re: Worried About Possible Return Fraud Accusation

    Thanks so much for your response!

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