Almost 5 years ago, when I was 13, I was caught shoplifting at a Costco in California. The store manager detained me in his office and called in a police officer. The officer talked to me for a bit and asked me to fill out of form of informations. My mother was called in;she had to pay for the merchandise I stole, then took me home. I was never further contacted regarding this incident; no court date, civil demand, or anything of the sort was required of me.
Now, 5 years later, as I fill out college applications, I am slightly confused on what to report for the field "Have you ever been convicted of a crime?" Since I did not get arrested or have to appear in court, does it still mean I was convicted of shoplifting? I am prepared to take responsibility for what I did, but I would still like to avoid answering "yes" to the question, if it is at all possible.
Thanks for listening.

