Thank you for all of your help. And you’re right, I do need to speak with someone. Every time I do it, it’s not even for myself, it’s a gift for someone else. But that doesn’t make it any better. I will update this if anything happens, or if it doesn’t!

Thank you for replying so quickly. May I ask how you know the police won’t turn up, given they have my name and address? I only as as I’m so scared.

Hi. I hope someone can help me. I know what I’ve done is stupid and wrong - I have an issue and it needs addressing. For the last few months or so, I have purchased items from John Lewis and then gone back in, picked up the same items and used the valid receipt to return them, whilst keeping the actual items at home. Tonight I was caught. This is the second time the same store detective has caught me - the first being in 2022. The first time, all that happened was my name and address was taken and I was given a ban. I have been so, so stupid. The items were £204 in total, I then paid them before I left. They took a photo of my ID, proof of my address and said my details would be passed onto the police and I would be contacted by them. He said I would have my details passed onto other stores in the area so they know who I am. My temporary job is about to come to an end and I can’t have a criminal record - I need to find a new job and pass the DBS check. He said that as I paid for the items, the RLP would not be in touch. As this is the second time I’ve been caught by them, will the police be called? Will they show up on my doorstep? Please help. I’m so anxious.