Restitution for Shoplifting

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Florida

I was terminated in September. I signed an agreement stating I would pay restitution of $260, through monthly installments. I received my letter of debt collection today. When I was found "guilty" of retail fraud, I was not charged with any crime nor taken to jail, merely signed an agreement. My question, is what will happen if I do not make the restitution payments? I plan on paying back the restitution irregardless, I'd just like to be aware of possible consequences. I also incurred a civil penalty of $200. What will be the consequences of failing to pay the civil penalty? Thanks for any and all help!

I am assuming you stole from an employer, correct?

You need to pay them back the money asap. If you don't pay it, I would bet they would press criminal charges, which will cost you a LOT more than $260.00 restitution. And will leave you with a Criminal Record that will affect your future job hunting.

The Civil Penalty - if you don't pay that...the amount will increase. Then they can take you to Civil Court, win a judgment, add in their legal fees (that $200 can easily turn into $1000+), and if you still don't pay....put a huge blemish on your credit rating.

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Quoting PandorasBox

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I am assuming you stole from an employer, correct?

You need to pay them back the money asap. If you don't pay it, I would bet they would press criminal charges, which will cost you a LOT more than $260.00 restitution. And will leave you with a Criminal Record that will affect your future job hunting.

The Civil Penalty - if you don't pay that...the amount will increase. Then they can take you to Civil Court, win a judgment, add in their legal fees (that $200 can easily turn into $1000+), and if you still don't pay....put a huge blemish on your credit rating.

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Yes, I was terminated with limited evidence - it was something that you sort of couldn't fight. Thank you for the insight!

They can take you to court.