In Ontario, would I be eligible for a diversion if it was a first offence apprehension of theft under $5,000. Totalling a bad judgment error. I have not received any police papers as of yet nor have I been fingerprinted and no officer was present.

Yes Diversion is a possibility in your case. IF you are charged and ordered to appear in court, you can seek a diversion. Until that happens, do nothing.

You sound very knowledgeable in law - do you have a background in it? I appreciate all your advice.

More of an interest in it then a background. I might have become a lawyer if I could have afforded law school and been a better student.