Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Not caught, but I'm paranoid

[tellthetabl0ids]

I have been shoplifting from (mainly) 2 stores for a few years. I have never been caught or confronted. Every time I shoplift I feel horrible and I don't know why I continue to do it. I am positive that one of the stores (if not, both) has all of my contact information due to me a) being a regular PAYING customer of that particular store and b) applying for a position there a while ago. Both of these stores have cameras. As I go to both of these stores quite often (to purchase and shoplift), I am becoming paranoid that the staff are beginning to recognize me. I know this is wrong and I want to stop but for some reason I can't, and I'm absolutely disgusted with myself. My questions is, if they have identified me and I return to that store to PURCHASE something (and do not shoplift anything at that time), can they arrest me for previous thefts? Or is this one of those times where they will "keep and eye on me" because I haven't been caught or pursued or confronted?

 

[shrinkmaster]

Is this related to http://www.thelaw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=48144#p1536 ?

 

[tellthetabl0ids]

No, this is a different and more recent incident. In these particular incidents, no one actually looked at me suspiciously or anything like that, the one person who rang me through the till just seemed very unimpressed with me at the moment (yes, I was purchasing at that time and did not shoplift anything).

 

[NormanJr]

You need to let someone know about your problem. It can have serious consequences in the future unless you stop now. It is hard, but letting a support partner know of your struggles will help you overcome them.

Check out the NASP. They have programs designed for this issue.

 

[shrinkmaster]

Agreed

 

[shrinkmaster]

The answer given you in your eariler post (linked to this topic by me) still applies. If the theft or thefts are discovered and the store has any means to ID you they can file charges and in your case this could be felony charges. You appear to have serious problem and should seek help. In mean time stay out of that store.

 

[tellthetabl0ids]

I have looked into and purchased the shoplifting prevention program from the link provided. This IS a serious problem, it has been going on for as long as I can remember (since I was a small child) and I am constantly living in guilt, disgust and embarrassment. My next question is, assuming they have me on video tape, how likely is it that they will review the tapes and contact the police? The stores in question are in a busy shopping mall.

 

[shrinkmaster]

Unless they know the time and date to look the chances are almost zero

 

[tellthetabl0ids]

Thank you for all your help, and especially for the shoplifting help link. I greatly appreciate it.

 

[shrinkmaster]

Your welcome. If we were any help please post something in our testimonial section