The context of the following conversation is Lee kept in mind all the possible outcomes as he broke into someone's house and robbed them.:
Lee says I knew I could get in trouble, and I thought about that, but I broke into the house on the corner anyway..
The friend responds Why did you take that risk?.
Lee responds I really needed money to buy my medication.  I ran out, and I couldn't think of any other way to get enough..
The friend responds I understand that's hard, but robbing someone.  That just wasn't right..
Lee responds I know, I feel bad about it but I just didn't think I had any other choice..