criminal record

[pmorley]

When I was seventeen I stole a skirt, I and know 40 years old and know how stupid this was and would appreciate not getting a load of abuse about it. I was more scared of my mum finding out that the possible criminal record and so begged for them not to tell her and treat me as an adult as I was nearly 18 (and was when it went to court and I was fined) however all these years later I realise what a mistake this was and that it is on my crb records. Anyhow my question is, Is there any way that this can be taken off as I was under 18 at the time of the offence, or does this make no difference.

[Loosehead]

They probably already are "off" Minor crimes become spent after a certain period, I'm reasonably sure that 20+ years would be enough for petty theft.

[pmorley]

Many thanks, however I believe spend offences also show but just have spent beside them.

[joko]

i doubt very much that this was done at your request.
the officers would have likely done exactly the same thing regardless of your wishes...you don't get to choose your punishment, and there is no way it would have been "we either take you to court, fine you, and criminal record - or - we tell your mum"!!

but as has been said this had likely been spent by now.

[StarskyH]

After such a length of time this would be "spent", generally 7 years is the period. However they do remain with you and should a similar offence take place again, in certain circumstances they can be used against you. That said an offence such a long time ago, would be classed as prejudicial to you and no judge would allow it to be used in evidence.

[pmorley]

Many thanks for all your responses, my reason for asking by the way is to find out whether it will show if I apply for new jobs, obviously someone without a conviction no matter how long ago would have an advantage, and rightly so.