Shoplifting In New Jersey - No ID

[remorseful1]

I was caught trying to take a $9 piece of merchandise from a large chain store by an LP. He said he saw on camera what I did. I was taken into their security room where I was told to sign a paper citing shoplifter-like behavior. I did not have any form of identification on me, and the LP was kind and did not call the police in exchange for information. He said that they would not pursue a court case as long I paid the civil demand when it arrived.

I was scared at the time and when asked, I gave altered information: different first name, ss#, address, etc. The address that I gave was for an empty house so I was able to get the civil demand letter when it came. It demanded $300 dollars with two weeks to pay, after which a civil lawsuit may be sought. I am a poor college student with no support from parents and so will not be able to pay this without significant hardship.

So I have a few questions:

1) If they have no record of a driver's license or otherwise to establish my identity and there was no police involvement, how likely is it that they will be able to establish my identity or a successful case against me criminal, civil, or otherwise?

2) Having learned my lesson and considering the circumstances, would it be advisable to ignore this and any future letters?

I am 23 and have nothing on my record. I am absolutely remorseful for doing such a despicable deed. In retrospect, I took the item on an absolutely misguided and irresponsible whim. I would really appreciate your input in putting this incident and my mind to rest.

[PJ Weber]

1) If they have no record of a driver's license or otherwise to establish my identity and there was no police involvement, how likely is it that they will be able to establish my identity or a successful case against me criminal, civil, or otherwise?

Do you really want them to track you down? Extra charges could be added for giving false information. They know what you look like, along with having you on tape. Something small could turn real ugly

2) Having learned my lesson and considering the circumstances, would it be advisable to ignore this and any future letters?

Pay up. It is seriously not advisable to ignore such letters

[panther10758]

If you live up to your user name (remorseful) you will pay. The consequences for not paying can be rather steep. It can be a few hundred now or a few thousand later its your choice