ORANGE COUNTY THEFT CRIME LAWYER

WHAT IS A THEFT CRIME?

In California, theft crimes are offenses that involve the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The state's legal system categorizes theft crimes based on various factors, including the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the offense. Here are some common types of theft crimes in California:

• Petty Theft (Penal Code 488 PC): Involves the theft of property with a value of $950 or less. It is a misdemeanor offense.
• Grand Theft (Penal Code 487 PC): Involves the theft of property with a value exceeding $950. Grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.
• Auto Theft (Vehicle Code 10851 VC): Refers to the unauthorized taking or driving of someone else's vehicle. Auto theft is generally considered a felony.
• Burglary (Penal Code 459 PC): Involves entering a building or structure with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Burglary can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.
• Robbery (Penal Code 211 PC): Involves using force, fear, or intimidation to take someone else's property. Robbery is a felony offense.
• Shoplifting (Penal Code 459.5 PC): Involves entering a commercial establishment with the intent to steal merchandise. Shoplifting is typically a misdemeanor, but it can be charged as a felony under certain circumstances.
• Embezzlement (Penal Code 503 PC): Involves the misappropriation of funds entrusted to someone in a position of trust. Embezzlement can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
• Identity Theft (Penal Code 530.5 PC): Involves unlawfully acquiring and using someone else's personal information for fraudulent purposes. Identity theft is usually a felony.
• Forgery (Penal Code 470 PC): Involves altering or creating false documents with the intent to defraud. Forgery is typically a felony.

PENALTIES FOR THEFT CRIMES IN CALIFORNIA

In California, the penalties for petty theft and grand theft vary based on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the offense. Here's a breakdown of the penalties for both petty theft and grand theft:

• Petty Theft ($950 or less): A misdemeanor that is punishable by up to six months in county jail and a maximum fine of $1,000.
• Grand Theft (over $950): A felony that carries a state prison sentence of 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years and up to $10,000 in fines.

Prior theft convictions may result in more severe penalties. Additionally, aggravating factors such as using a weapon or stealing from an elderly person may lead to enhanced penalties.

Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reclassified certain theft offenses, making many theft crimes that would have been felonies misdemeanors. This includes some cases of grand theft where the value is $950 or less.