I have a shoplifting question, which may be a little uncommon. I'm 26 and the other day I was caught shoplifting (pathetic I know, but It was only out of desperation), but not traditional shoplifting. What happened was I would buy a few small, lost cost items, then a few days later I would return, pick the same items up and use my receipt to return the items to the store (as If they were the same Items I purchased). I was able to do this a few times before without being caught, but the other day I was caught when I tried to return some Items (the total cost being around $3.59 before tax). The store didn't call the Police but took my ID, said they would file theft charges, and that I would receive a letter in the mail. The only reason I ever did this was because I've been having money trouble as well as a lot of trouble finding a job. I would appreciate If someone could help me with the following questions:


1-When they file the charges, If they somehow found out (a friend rats me out, they watch old security camera footage etc..) about the other times I've done this will they be able to add the other Items to the charges even If they didn't actually catch me during those times?

2-This is one of my first offenses (the only other being a tint ticket), what will happen when I go to court?

3-Well I be charged with a misdemeanor or felony?


Thank you for any help.


My question involves criminal law for the state of: Indiana