Caught Shoplifting in New Jersey

I’m 20 and I was caught shoplifting in New Jersey at a Walmart (yes, I know it’s completely ridiculous and I was stupid). The security person took me to a room and asked for the merchandise, so I gave him what I had taken (makeup). Then he asked for my ID and I gave it to him and I was so scared. He asked for my SSN# and I told him that. I believe he took down my address and info, even my height and weight. After all of this he said that I would get a letter in the mail with a fine in 4 to 6 weeks of up to $150. They never called the cops it was only walmart employees. I didn’t get my picture taken and I didn't have to sign anything. When I was leaving they gave me a paper containing New Jersey Statute 2A: 61 C-1 . The whole interaction was between 5 to 10 minutes as if it was routine.


My questions:

1. Will I receive criminal penalties for this even though there was no police to ticket me or give me a court date and they didn’t mention any of that either.

2. My other question is what will they do with SSN#? Put this on my permanent record? By the way this was my first time being caught and doing this.

3. Does it seem like I have to go to court?

4. Should I seek legal advice?


My question involves criminal law for the state of:

No police typically means you got lucky.

You will receive a Civil Demand in the mail (that's the letter they told you about).

As for your SSN, this (along with name, address, etc) is for WalMart's database of shoplifters.