Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Question Regarding Petty Theft

[rtfQuestion]

I was in a retail store in a mall in Virginia today. I took about 9 dollars worth of merchandise (a terrible idea, obviously) and was taken to the back of the store. I cooperated, apologized for making a bad decision, and returned the merchandise. I had to sign a civil theft notice paper saying I may receive correspondence from their attorney, which from what I've read here, means that I may have to pay a civil fine. They said that they were not pressing charges because I cooperated and was visibly upset about what I had done. I was just told I may have to pay a civil fine, and that I am no longer allowed in the store.

I realize this was more than a dumb thing to do, and I'm grateful they didn't call police or press charges, especially since this is the first time I've ever done anything like that. I've never even had a ticket, and I'm 22.

My question is this, though: How much (roughly) am I looking at paying in civil fines? I've heard different things and don't know what to think. And also, the man at the store said that I "might get a letter about paying a fine" even though there aren't criminal charges, or i "might not." And he said, "if you don't hear from them, don't call them."

Is that sound advice? If I don't receive a notice, should I just assume they didn't charge me? Because the last thing I want is for this letter to get lost in the mail or something, and then this company to be thinking I'm avoiding paying a fine. Then I'd be in big trouble. But I also don't want to call and bring attention to myself if it's that's a dumb thing to do.

I did a stupid thing, so I'm just trying to fix the situation, and make sure I do this the right way without getting in more trouble. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[thelawjournal]

Long as you gave your correct address you should get letter. I expect the fine will be near $100.00. If you don't get letter I (personal view) would call store ask for number of their Civil Recovery service. Failure to pay and pay on time can carry many consequences none are good. These letters can come in days, weeks even, months. If one month goes by with no letter that would be time to call

 

[rtfQuestion]

Thanks, I appreciate the advice. I was really shaken up, but as far as I can remember I did give the correct information. But that's what I thought; It would be better to call and check than not to.

 

[Guest]

When you call don't say "Hey I'm the fool that stole form you other day" just asked them for the number. Tell them you need to contact them and lost number