3rd Degree Theft at Costco

[tennisguy199]

I recently committed 3rd degree theft in Eastern Washington at Costco. I was detained by their Loss Prevention officer and returned 2 stolen DVDs amounting to about $45. Honestly I know it was a stupid thing to do but I am kind of grateful I got caught. I'm just shy of 19, freshman in college and have been hanging out "with the wrong crowd." My actions today made me realize that.

They took me into their back room and made me sign their "Criminal Trespass Notice" and I can't enter for 2 years. They also took my ID and let me go after telling me a court date would be set.

I have a clean criminal record, nothing except for a HOV ticket that I paid to be deferred. I am deepy sorry for doing this but I think it's been a necessary, albeit harsh, experience to curb my newfound freedom without parents.

What I want to know is how do I keep this off my permenant record. I'm a resident alien studying in college and cannot afford to have this on it. I'm not really considering immigration but I do want to continue studying. I'm willing to go through whatever community service, jail time, fines, as long as I can keep it off my perm. record. Please advice! Thank you very much.

Edit: They did not make me pay any fee, although I am willing to.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Consult a local criminal defense lawyer about whether your county offers any deferral or diversion programs for which you may be eligible, and if so try to get one or the other.