This is my first offence. I have been caught doing refunds for cash and gift cards at Sears. The amount as of right now is around $4000. I was wondering what type of punishment I might receive. I know I screwed up so there's no need to call me stupid as I already feel that way. This is my first offence and I've already been told to contact Legal Aid. I just need to know what punishments I may receive.

Also, what type of punishment would I receive if the amount ends up totalling over $5000? I'm 19 years old.

Don't worry too much bud, because it is a first offense, if it is under $5000, you'll likely receive 2 or 3 years probation and restitution (payback) of a certain percentage. If the total is over $5000, it will likely be up to the judge that day. I assume you've been given a court date.

There is another option for you, a legal aid lawyer will be able to make an appointment for you with "Adult Diversion" This is a program that will allow you to repay the amount without going to court and also without having any criminal record. They are usually pretty understanding, but you'll have to make an arrangement to repay in 12 months or less.

Thanks for the reply. How does this "Adult Diversion" program work? And what are the chances of jail time for this. I've been told it's very unlikely because it is a first offence, regardless of how much but I just wanted to clarify if this is true or not because it's one of my main concerns. I hope what you say is true because I've never felt so bad before. I know what I did is wrong and I regret doing it and it seems as if I'm suffering from depression. So any advice would be greatly appreciated.

While this may be your first offense, this is not a case of impulse shoplifting like many in this category. You planned and systematically committed these thefts over time. I doubt if you would be granted diversion for this type of crime. I would IMMEDIATELY get a good attorney to represent you.

You stand a fair chance of not going to jail, though it depends on how vigorously Sears pursues it. I think you will get a longer probation period and need to make FULL restitution.