Am I in the clear (legally)?

I'm 19 and was recently caught stealing from a department store. I was escorted by the manager and mall police to a "loss prevention" office, where all my information was taken. After talking to the officer for a while he decided to not write me a citation and let me go with a temporary ban from the store/mall.

My question is this, can the store still press charges or anything even though I wasn't issued a citation?

Basically wondering if I have to worry about anything other than NOT going back to the store again.

Yes - though they agreed to not press charges on the basis if you reenter the store in the future you will be charged with criminal trespassing. The charge may be held in abeyance.

only if you actually stole something, then they can file a civil suit and get money from you.

Why were you stealing? I think if you did not need what you stole to keep you alive, and you couldn't afford it you deserve what you get. People who shoplift cause all the honest people to pay more!!!!!!!!

If they did not cite you at the time, but simply 'trespassed' you, then they're satisfied that keeping you away solves most of their problem. Although they could actually bring back the charge later, in reality it would hinge on new developments, not just a change of heart. An example would be them discovering that they'd apprehended you previously for the same problem. If that's not the case, then reast easy. As long as you don't go back, you really don't have anything to worry about.

Did you sign anything, if so yes I believe they can.
Consider your self lucky, you are young and they gave you a break.
Don't steal, it's not worth it.

They can still choose to press charges if they want to, but if they wanted to, then they would have done it there and then. It's highly unlikely that they would change their minds after declining the opportunity. I think you're OK. Hope you learned a lesson.

Depending on where you live or this incident happened, there could be a time limit on it. Since stores now have videos, I would steer clear of that place for a few months to a year or so. You are still YOUNG w/ A LOT to learn and some growing up to do still!!! Stealing is "WRONG"!! Hello~~ why did you try it? Think before you act next time! on EVERYTHING Thinking about the consequences can prevent a lot of HURTING, if not yourself maybe your family or other loved ones!!!!!!

if what you took, were less than $25.00 and all the man did were band you from the store, you're in the clear, once they
let you go, no they can't come back at you later, to press charges.... just stay out of that store, and anything you can't pay for, you doesn't need it, it's takes lots of money, to get out
of jail... think about it....

Theoretically, charges could be filed anytime until the statute of limitations expires. Realistically, they didn't keep the evidence and there are no police reports and so no DA is going to go forward even if asked.

If you got caught stealing something, they have up to one year to bring charges against you. However, if they just banned you and gave you a citation, it would be double jeopardy now if they brought charges. You're clear.