Hi there,
I need advice on what to do.
I went into primark and stole a pair of £1 nickers, a £10 top and £3 shorts as I had no clothes to change into due to myself having an accident, I know it’s extremely stupid of me to do so but one was in desperate need of help and change of clothes,
I know stealing isn’t the way and I totally regret but I needed to help myself in desperate need, I felt I had no other choice in such short time. I’ve never stolen in my life and of course I got caught on camera, the security men pulled me into a small room and told me to hand over the goods, which I did.
Nothing was damaged, everything was in perfect condition, so they had no loss incurred… they said they are reporting me to civil recovery specialists and RLP will be in contact with me on how to pay for for costs incurred.
RLP wrote to me saying the outstanding amount payable is £165.00 which is a fixed contribution to all of the losses, things like, the time spent by staff in observing, apprehending, interviewing, and undertaking all necessary internal and external proceedings thereafter. This doesnot include any amount for the property or cash as these were fully recovered.
they go on to saying this is a civil claim and is separate from any criminal proceedings or police actions. Under civil procedure rule 1998 The court has power to impose sanctions on any party who fails to comply with the practice direction.
I can’t afford to pay £165 … and b.coz all items were handed back in perfect conditions why is it I have to pay £165 when theoretically nothing was permanently taken… I’m absolutely gutted.
Can I just ignore the letter or ?
I don’t know what to do.. any advice would be much appreciated.
thank you