It was just a normal night, out driving with friend, when my friend decides she wants to go to the mall. We walk into Claire's and I realize I have no money on me, but my debit card, so I manage to slip a total of SIX things inside my bag that I have, and I was not outside of the store but I was pretty close, she asksme to empty out my bag and return everything. I asked if she will be prosecuting and she says yes. I offer to pay for the merchandise, but that didn't fly. Less than 2 minutes later the police officer arrives with two other gentlemen, I began to ball my eyes out, and apologize profusely. "The damage was already done." She asked if I had ever been readen my rights and I told her that I never even had a detention, so then she read me my rights. She rang up the total value and it came to 99.25, which was EXAGGERATED, but the officer said had it been 100 dollars or more then I would be sent to "JAC"I had my friend phone my aunt who works for a lawyer. The officer made me take off all my jewelry, checked my pockets, and then proceeded to put the handcuffs around my wrists. I had a sweater on and she put the jacket sleeves over the cuffs. I walked through the mall with the officer by my side and people were staring and yelling things out, I just could not believe I did this, nor that I was being arrested. I went into the Annex office where they finger printed me and took my photo, and was released to my dad. I had to sign a paper saying I was banned from that store. I am only 17, and will not being 18 until August. I live in south Florida, and this is my first offense. Now, the questions for you.
1) I have been reading about diversion schools, or something like that, is there any way I could do that?
2) When I apply for jobs, will I have to check that I have been arrested, or is that only for felonies?
3) I am currently employed, will I have to tell my current employer about this, if I do, can I be fired?
4) Will this be "forgiven" on my record after I turn 18? *please say yes*
The officer said she wrote in the report that I was being remorseful and Honestly this was the stupidest thing I've ever done. Now, if you could help me anwser these questions, your help will be greatly appreciated.