Why did Mr. Fisher want everyone at the meeting to agree to the restitution plan?

Mr. Fisher didn't want Eric and Arthur to go to jail. Mr. Fisher explains that the sheriff has said that, if the theft victims get all their valuables back and if they agree to sign a restitution, then Erik and Arthur won’t have to go to jail. He asks the neighbors to show his son this mercy. The neighbors don’t see why they should help these thieves out. Arthur’s dad, Mr. Bauer, argues with them. Finally they agree to sign.