Caught Stealing at JCPenney

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California

I was at JC penny and I got caught shoplifting 84 dollars worth of merchandise as I exited the store to go to my friend’s car. A man runs after me I dropped everything and ran away from the area I managed to evade them along with my friend they apparently got my friends license plate number and the police arrived at his house they called my phone and told me to come over there so I went they took my info and my side of the story along with my friends they took all my personal information as well they said I would get a court date in the mail and the officer said I could be charged with a felony for burglary. This was my second time getting caught shoplifting one time I was under 18 at Wal-Mart but they asked for a civil demand which I paid off what would my best course of action be? I really regret my actions and it was stupid of me to do something so childish.

You will get a Civil Demand from JC Penney. You likely are also banned from all JC Penney stores.

As you now have criminal charges....and we don't know how close to the WalMart one...you would be best advised to get a Criminal Defense Attorney. If you can't afford one, then plead Not Guilty and ask for a Public Defender (and he/she is not free).

Do you realize your friend is likely in trouble, too? As he was an accessory to the crime?

You both can expect court costs, fines. There's a possibility of an anti-shoplifting class or community service (and you get the privilege of paying for it). Expect $1500+ when all is done (including the Civil Demand).