Q: I wrote a check to a person the check bounced. It was returned for not sufficient funds (NSF). The other person said that he is going to the police so they can have me arrested. Can he really do that?
A: Yes. Passing a bad check in California is a crime. The police can arrest you and the DA can press charges. In Sacramento County, first time offenders are usually given a program as a diversion that helps you learn how to avoid this in the future. But, after the first offense, you could face jail time.