Theft Under $5000, impersonation. First offense
Yesterday I was arrested for theft under $5000 and impersonation with intent to gain advantage. I am 19 and in Canada (Manitoba), and this is my first offense. I was charged with impersonation because at first I had given the LP officer of the store a fake name/age under 18 in hopes that I would be banned and let go, as I do a lot of traveling to the states for work and for professional dance, and am going to school there for medicine in the next few years. I am also going overseas this summer to volunteer. I had developed a pretty elaborate story as to who my parents were, why I didn't have my wallet (I left in my car so I wouldn't be tempted to buy anything- obviously that didn't work out well for me) etc. Because I didn't have ID they called the police. I then told the police my real last name, but because the first name I had originally given was coincidentally my sister's (first name I thought of under 18), I am now being charged with impersonation.
I am sick to my stomach over this. I made a horrible, horrible decision and may end up ruining my entire future over this. I realize I complicated things and made them more serious with the impersonation charge, and I am wondering what a realistic conviction will be? I have a lawyer, and they said it is very likely I will get into a diversion program or have the charges (both) stayed as this is my first offence, but I would like to know if anyone has had a similar case.