Hello,

Basically over the last month I was employed and progressively I charged customers for products although I didn't register in the system so they were basically handing me money which I would then collate and take at the end of the shift. I can't recall the specific amount all though they believe it to be between $3000 and $4000 AUD, but will do a stock take to be sure.

I was only caught out today by the Loss Prevention officer and was given termination, and asked to reimburse the money. That is not what I am worried about though.

I have never been in this situation before and I don't know the outcomes as they said it will be a matter for the police, I want to join the defence force and this has now become an issue. As for Criminal records etc.

Basically I just need some advice as how to proceed and what the likely outcome will be, we have been given an account to pay the settlement back to and will do so before the police contact me because of christmas/new year.

How is the best way to proceed?

You've been caught. At this point I would consult with an Attorney. It's your employer's choice how to proceed.

I see a problem if you hand them a certain amount and say it's reimbursement for what you stole. I see another problem if you do nothing. Obviously returning a dollar amount provides your employer with an estimate of just how much money was involved. This could raise the charge from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Yes, it's a matter for the Police. Defense Department? I very highly doubt it - you will have a criminal record and theft from an employer is taken a lot more seriously than theft from a stranger.

What Country - I am guessing the US, but it's pretty much universal.