My question involves criminal law for the state of: NY
Yesterday I was detained by security at Sears, I tried to take a couple of pair of earrings. It's without a doubt the stupidest thing I've ever done in my life. I was shopping for a gift that day and had no money left, saw the earrings and loved them and I just wanted them but could not pay for them.
Now, I'm a responsible, educated woman that has no need to steal anything (I guess nobody really has) and I can't understand how I even thought of doing something so moronic, deeply regret it, the experience was humilliating (I guess that's the point) and I've never felt so embarrassed on my entire life. FOR A PAIR OF EARRINGS??? WHO DOES THAT!!!!!
Anyways, they took me to the "back room" in front of the whole store, searched my jacket and my purse, asked for mi ID (gave them my driving license) and made me sign a form admitting to it, the merchandise value was $22.00, then they let me go. I was too ashamed to even say a word so I did not ask anything.
I thought about writing a letter to the store manager or something to say I was deeply sorry about what I did, I feel the need to apologize to somebody. I wonder if that's even worth it, I want to know what happens next: would a receive a letter or a fine? do I have a police record? do they inform every store in that mall that I'm a "shoplifter" now? Do I contact Sears and ask them what will they do?
Of course I would never set foot on that store again but I'm afraid I will be at a different store and people will mark me as a thief and I'm too mortified to even say anything to anybody I know. Alittle advice, please? Thank you.

