Help me understand the use of autant in this example

Question

I understand the meaning of autant, however I do not understand how it applies in this sentence. Can you help me understand what it means?

Puisque j'étais déjà soupçonné de voler, autant le faire.

Thank you

Answer 1

Autant normally means "just as soon", "just as much", and by extension "equally good" or "with equal consequences". Thus, here it carries the meaning "might as well":

Since I was already suspected of stealing, I might as well do it.