Letter from Walmart Wanting Money for Theft

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Kentucky.

My friend received a letter today from an attorney that works for Walmart wanting $250 for shoplifting. She had went in to the store, found something worth alot of money and then returned it to get the money on a gift card. She was never caught but obviously they must have red flagged her and looked at the cameras. My question is will paying the fine be an admission of guilt and then will she be prosecuted in criminal court. She knows she made a mistake and will gladly pay the fine but is scared she will go to jail.

A civil demand settles a possible civil claim arising from your act of theft. It is irrelevant to any criminal proceedings.