Q: Caught shoplifting $360 of games at California Target, no charges but was given a civil demand letter can I ignore it?
I am 21 and I accidentally gave them the wrong address because my drivers license has an old address. I’ve heard many different opinions on whether I should ignore the fine, should I ask to change it or am I fine ignoring the fine because no authorities were called? Can this go on my permanent record?
A:
The most prevalent response to this question is to ignore the civil demand. In order to collect they would have to sue you in small claims court. It is a disputed debt so should not affect your credit rating.
Do not go back to that store or any branches as they may arrest you for Trespassing.
Consider yourself very lucky since that amount of theft usually results in an arrest and a misdemeanor charge!
Since they don't have your correct address, how did you get the demand letter? You had a perfect defense to a civil suit if you never received notice of it!
A:
I WOULD WANT MORE INFO, HOWEVER, I WOULD BE TEMPTED TO PAY SO AS TO NOT PISS THEM OFF AND FORCE THEM TO PUSH FOR A FILING.
OTHERWISE, YOU WOULD BE SUED IN SMALL CLAIMS COURT.
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