Should I Return the Stuff I Shoplifted

[Phassy21]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Iowa
I shoplifted $20 worth of stuff two weeks ago and the guilt is eating me alive. I can't even function and I just wish my life would end because I don't deserve to live. I hate myself so much for this. I just want to send the item back with extra money and an apology note. Would that make my chances of being caught greater? I can't afford to get caught. I Have a really good future ahead of me and I pray that this one mistake won't ruin it. I know I shouldn't have done it...I don't know what I was thinking. But would I be better off leaving it alone or returning the stuff?

[llworking]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Iowa
I shoplifted $20 worth of stuff two weeks ago and the guilt is eating me alive. I can't even function and I just wish my life would end because I don't deserve to live. I hate myself so much for this. I just want to send the item back with extra money and an apology note. Would that make my chances of being caught greater? I can't afford to get caught. I Have a really good future ahead of me and I pray that this one mistake won't ruin it. I know I shouldn't have done it...I don't know what I was thinking. But would I be better off leaving it alone or returning the stuff?

You would be better off leaving it alone at this point. Admitting it would just screw up your future. However, remember how you feel right now and carry that with you, so that you are never foolish enough to do something like that again.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Send the store a money order and a letter of explanation, apologizing for the act (or indicating that you accidentally took the items and want to pay for them); you don't have to identify yourself. Keep the receipt from the money order.