I was caught yesturday at shoplifting $18 worth of merchendise at urban outfitters yesturday. First offense, and seventeen years old. My parents came to get me and like begged the workers at wetseal but they still decided to prosecute me because "they prosecute everyone". So I filled out paper work, and signed the civill demands paper. However, when I offered to pay for the items/fines the workers said that I didn't have to. Does that mean they can ask me later for the charge? Later the police came and they were very nice about everything. I answered some questions and got a pink slip of paper saying that I'll recieve another paper in the mail telling me when my court date is. I asked the officer whether or not this would stay in my permanent record and he said not if I seal it after turning 18. But I'm applying to colleges this fall and I'll still be seventeen! Is there anyway to fix that?
I have NOOOO idea what to expect, how much trouble I'm in, whether or not I'll be on probation and how much fines will be..
can someone help?
thanks very much!

