Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

You don't have to go back... but you aren't safe, either.

The police could still come and arrest you. If you fought with store personnel in order to escape, you could be facing robbery charges, which are far more serious than theft.

If the police contact you again, DO NOT say anything to them except: "I wish to remain silent and I will not answer any questions without an attorney." Then stick to it!

You aren't going to talk your way out of getting arrested, and anything you say will probably make things worse.

If you are arrested and can't afford to hire your own attorney, the judge will appoint the public defender at your first court appearance.

Borrow the money to hire an attorney if you have to, because robbery and burglary are very serious charges, and if you get convicted you won't work again, that's 45 years of unemployment and misery once you get out of prison.