First time shoplifting with a small amount

[garrula lingua]

Never, stores don't usually request prosecution for food items of $2, and posecutors either don't file, or file infractions only.

You do not have a criminal record.
If you do receive a civil demand letter, just pay, as chucky said.

[neverdoitagain]

Garrula, thanks for the information! It was not food. I haven't received anything so far.

However, I recently got to know National Theft Database by USIS. It really stresses me a lot. Honestly, it is a great tool for employers. But I'm really terrified that I may be there already and will be there forever. I'm young and just started my life. I'll be blaming myself to death if I can never even start my first job because of this 1 dollar something, which I feel really guilty and shame. Do you know if the governmental agencies or any other industry except retailing and banking use that database for background check? Is it true that the record will be expounged after seven years? Thank you so much in advance!

[turbowray]

I will say this for the last time for everyone. Honey, since no cops were called, and you were not arrested, and taken to jail, and booked, or if an appear at court papers were not given to you, by the police, then you are NOT a criminal to be put in the system you were talking about. You are fortunate, that they decided not to involve the police. Count your blessings, pay anything that the store asks you to, if they do, and go on with your life. No cops, no charges, no record, no worries!