Hello, Firstly like most others on here, I find myself feeling sick to the pit of my stomach about the most out of character and utterly mortifying thing Ive ever done. A few days ago I walked out of Tesco with a few bottles of wine. My reasons for doing so are far reaching and the crux of it comes down to having no money, not on benefits but money coming in does not cover bills let alone food (debt problems are another story which I wont go into). After a few months of living off food rations and a feeling of utter desperation it led me to do something I am beyond ashamed about. My first and last time. To cut a long story short, I walked out and was apprehended by a store manager and his female colleague, was taken to the back room of the store and emptied my bag of two bottles of wine. the total was under £35. They asked me my name and address which I gave and they called police they also passed me a piece of paper about RLP but nothing else was said. The police arrived 20 mins later and one officer stayed with me and the other took statements from the security/staff from outside the room. I made a statement, admitted guilt, was searched throughly and was kept waiting for another 30 mins, they were going to caution me and then they both spoke outside of the room and decided they were going to take me to the police station and arrest me. I asked why they were taking this course of action and they said it was because of the value of the items taken. We got to the police station and DNA samples were taken alongside fingerprints and my photograph was taken. I was quiet throughout albeit shaking through fear. I have never been in trouble before and have never been in a police station let alone anything else. I was told that it would now be referred to the courts to decide on whether to charge me with theft or fine me. They said I would hear in a few weeks on whether I have to attend court. I haven't slept in a few days and am actually grateful I have nothing to eat in the house as I am not hungry! I cant speak to anyone about this and am now at a friends house surfing for answers as I am so scared about what is going to happen next. I have no previous convictions and am so scared I will have to go to court. One of the reasons being I have family members who work there and they might see my name on court appearance paperwork? I am not sure what it all means, As I have admitted guilt will I be charged by the court or issued a caution and fine. Reading some other posts it makes me feel optimistic that I would be lucky to escape with a fine, and the dreaded RLP letter. Do matter like this noramlly end up with people having to attend court? I understand that if I am charged I will have a criminal record. Does this ever get removed after a number of years, I am so distraught and am feeling like the lowest of the low and sick beyond belief. The thought that I am now on the police network makes me sick with worry. As a detterent to repeat offenders, my shock has worked. I will never be so stupid as to do anything like that ever again. I am just so scared about the possible ramifications. Please could anyone reply with what could possibly happen and what has happened in similar circumstances in the past. I have no one I can confide in about my stupidity as I am utterly ashamed by my actions. Thank you in advance for any advice anyone can give me. Lucy