3rd-degree Retail Fraud (less than $6)
Hi,
I stole a beverage from a campus shop a couple of months ago (i'm a college student), and was caught. I paid less than $5 or $6 for it (I cannot remember the exact value, but it was around that), and after being detained, I had the opportunity to pay for the item back (which I did). I received a couple of emails from a student accountability office and had the choice of taking this to court or writing an essay to reflect on my actions. I chose the latter, and after completing and submitting my reflection, I was informed that the case would be resolved.
I believed this was the end, but I recently received a letter in the mail stating that I actually did receive a charge for 3rd-degree retail fraud and that I have an arraignment scheduled tomorrow. I am really scared, and I have no idea what to do or expect at this (e.g., what do I even say, how do these things even work, etc.). I have absolutely no record whatsoever. I am also worried about the consequences this will have on my career. I'd appreciate any guidance for next steps. I wanted to contact Student Legal Services, but I found out about this too late. Thought I'd post on Reddit.
Location: Michigan