This advice applies to ALL such circumstances irrespective of which retailers are involved

I realize it's a bit like closing the stable door cos most who come here have already fallen foul of CR but hey some may benefit Also cut & paste this onto the fridge door for all of the family to read as God only knows who will be next

If your accused here’s what you MUST & MUST NOT do

1st DO remain calm & try to avoid getting angry. Difficult though it may be be polite allowing them to have their say before responding, maintain the high moral ground by NOT being argumentative (remember the CCTV)

2nd If innocent DO maintain that position by stating at every opportunity “I deny the allegation(s)” or if you prefer “I didn’t do it gov”

3th If accosted outside the store and asked to return DO agree but as soon as you have entered stop & insist they deal with it there

4nd If accosted in the store DO NOT attempt to leave & this is most important when invited DO NOT go into their ‘little quiet’ office:eek: & although undoubtedly embarrassing remain exactly where you are, in sight of the CCTV, retail staff & public:)

5th DO NOT give your name & address to anyone other than a police officer & only then if the police officer asks the store staff to remove themselves out of earshot

6th DO NOT under any circumstances allow the shop staff to search you or your belongings & if involved a police officer does conduct a search request a notice explaining why & where it took place

7th Tell the police officer(s) you DO NOT wish them to give your details to the store whilst reminding them that the store can make a formal written request for the info (for which they’ll probably be charged £60 or more & of course it there's no caution, arrest or charge there'll be now't to give:D)

8th Despite the threats that we understand will be made & no matter how trivial they may claim it to be DO NOT under any circumstances sign anything or give any verbal undertaking:evil:

9th DO try & remember the names or physical details of all who are involved including staff who are nearby such as sales, checkout staff etc:)

10th If the police attend DO get the officers warrant card number The reason why you ask for the warrant card number is because his shoulder number might become redundant if/she moves to another area

11th If guilty say now’t without 1st getting legal counsel:wink:

12th If asked to write a letter of apology to the store DON'T

Further discussion here;

http://www.consumeractiongroup.co.uk/forum/retail-loss-prevention-other/250371-accused-shoplifting-theft-falsely.html

No one wants you to back off Start your own thread then put a link here then we can offer advice specific to your needs