Shoplifted from Asda,need Advice.please help.

[oldsoul911]

I am an overseas student in glasgow,I carried the items in my bag with the help of my friend, items worth nearly 35 pounds including pizza,deodrant,chocolate etc..The buzzer went off and i was caught because all of it was in my bag.Police was called.They treated me well took my picture,checked my bag,took me home,phone uk border agency and made a record of shoplifting in my file.They asked me why i did it and i said i did it because i didnt have enough money to pay my fees.

 

Initially the Cops said it was upto Asda to press charges but after they took me home they told me that the case was registred and i will be send a letter stating the date on which the case will he heard in some "special court?"

 

Now,something what really worries me is that will this be a problem when coming to my post study work permit visa?

 

Also,how long will it take to receive the letter and when will be the case be heard at the court?Can you tell me what kind of punishment i might get?fine?then kinda how much!?

[rebel11]

Hi oldsoul

 

Welcome to CAG

 

The guys will respond shortly.

[Hammy1962]

Everyone is aware of my, not uncommon, stance on shoplifters & thieves so it's probably better I don't respond.

 

Not gonna look good on a visa or work permit application though.

 

Hammy

Edited October 27, 2010 by Hammy1962

[oldsoul911]

please,no one has anything?

[my-spirit-soars-free]

I found this - basically, a criminal conviction will not help your chances:

 

http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/britishcitizenship/eligibility/goodcharacter/

[MARTIN3030]

That link only applies to those seeking citzenship.

Much depends on when the original visa was given.

Tier 4 would prob apply now.

Have a look here;

 

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/policyandlaw/IDIs/idischapter9/

[MARTIN3030]

My guess is that if Police Action is to follow then you may well get a caution.

It is usual for the BA to be notified - so I would not worry too much about that.

Notifications take place for checks to be made that your visa is still current.

[oldsoul911]

if just a caution is to be given,can you tell me how do they do that?its been two months today.

[MARTIN3030]

A caution is given at your local Police office by a senior officer.

It usually takes just a few minutes.You would be told that on this time no further action is being taken by the Police,but if you get into trouble again for anything which could lead to a charge within xxx time,then this incident would also be dealt with along with subsequent matters.You would be asked to sign to say that you agree and understand it.

Notice for you to attend for this could be by phone call or letter.

Hopefully no further action will come.

Just let us know here if any does.

Edited November 3, 2010 by MARTIN3030

[oldsoul911]

it has been 2 months and nothing has happened and luckly i have got a job too. Thanks for all the info and this is a great website has helped me a lot.Thanks again.

[honeybee13]

Thank you for reporting back. I hope life continues to go well for you. Don't forget about us .

 

My best, HB

[MARTIN3030]

it has been 2 months and nothing has happened and luckly i have got a job too. Thanks for all the info and this is a great website has helped me a lot.Thanks again.

 

Very good to hear it.

[oldsoul911]

Today i got a letter from Crown office and procurator fiscal service stating i need to pay 75 pounds fine and thereafter no kind of criminal conviction will be taken on me in court.

 

Is this ok. Does it mean i dont have to state to anyone i have any conviction?

[mattyprice4004]

Not sure if you'd have to mention it, but shows our justice system is lacking... much too easy of a cop-out.