I got tickets before (which was little comapring to you) and I did not pay til the last moment. It sent me a letter said, it became a criminal offense. The police had the right to put me in jail next time they saw me in the states, driving or not.
I do not know about the 5 years thing because on the letter it did not say anything about that.
You should at least fight for it and maybe get the 1000 dollar off at least.
check the box for mitigation hearing and request for fine reduced. plus i heard some states will get collection agency to put uncollected charge on your credit report. And you are banned to drive in that state/states for lifetime.
yes, in Canada if you do not pay, you cannot renew your license but in States, the police has the right to put you in drive if they catch you driving again.