Theft Class C Misdemeanor Oregon

Portland OREGON.
28 years old and have no record prior to this event.

Shoplifted a few items at a store totaling $16.37 and caught by Lost Prevention and taken into a back room. Police were called and was taken to the jail where fingerprints were taken. Waited approximately 1 1/2 hour and was released. Charged with "Theft III" which appears to be a class C misdemeanor.

(1) At the arraignment hearing what should I plead? I'd like to go into "Community Court", which according to the DA website, claims:

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What is a typical Community Court sanction or sentence?
A typical Community Court sanction includes 1 to 5 days of community service and may include a social service mandate as well.
Are Community Court charges dismissed?
Most first-time cases at Community Court are dismissed if the defendant successfully completes the Community Court sanction. LINK

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but to get into that program apparently I need to:

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To enter Community Court requires you to plead guilty to the charge and admit the facts. (Portland Attorney's website).

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(2)
I have $0 (hence the theft) so therefore hiring an attorney will absolutely be impossible. :wallbang:

Plead not guilty. Ask for a Public Defender. Then ask for a diversion program.

You need to come up with some money, because you are looking at costs for a PD, plus any fines, and cost of the diversion program/community service. Sorry, shoplifting is expensive!

My misdemeanor C charge has been reduced to a "violation" upon completion of a theft class.

I pleaded guilty and was told to attend this theft class per judge order. No fines or court costs or jail time.

Does this violation remain on my record?