Shoplifting in Sears in California

[smm]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California

Its my first stupid act and lifetime last act .I made shoplift in Sears last month. I got notice of payment of 400$ for the 68$ shoplift. Notice says that I have to pay 400$ as their damand.

But the notice also says : The payment of any demand made upon you does not prevent criminal prosecution under a related criminal statuteprovision.

If I pay them 400$ amount, will they do further legal action?
I am sacred, will there be any criminal record recorded against me?
Please help me

[M'sta Mikey]

What you received is called a civil demand. If you pay it, chances are extremely good they won't prosecute. Ignore it and all bets are off; they will procecute and seek a criminal conviction.

Pay it, stay out of their store and consider it a lessoned learned.

[smm]

thanks for quick reply.
I still have question .
Does this act is recorded anywhere and is recorded as criminal record against me?

[M'sta Mikey]

If you pay the demand, in full and on time, no; there is no "criminal" record. If you fail to do so, they most likely will file suit and a criminal charge will then be entered.

The only time a criminal record exists is if you're arrested, charged, and/or subsequently convicted. Even being charged can have it's reprocussions. Pay the fine, be sincere in your apology, abide by their restrictions (not to trespass on their premise) and you should be OK