California Theft Crimes

In California, theft crimes refer to simply taking something that belongs to somebody else without their consent. California law divides theft crimes into two categories, petty theft and grand theft. Grand theft involves stealing property that is valued over $400 while petit or petty theft typically refers to any other theft crimes where the value of the property is below the $400 threshold. Some examples of theft crimes include but are not limited to:

• Shoplifting or petty theft
• Petty theft with a prior
• Burglary
• Robbery
• Armed Robbery
• Carjacking
• Vehicular Theft
• Embezzlement
• Larceny
• Money Laundering
• Credit card fraud
• Identity theft

Penalties

The majority of thefts are petty thefts which is a misdemeanor charge that carries up to six months in jail and/or a fine up to $1000. If the item stolen was worth less than $50.00, the prosecutor may charge you with an infraction, which is a lesser charge and carries a smaller fine of $250.00.

Grand theft is a felony offense and involves taking property valued over $400, up to three years in prison and if the grand theft was over $50,000, the prison sentence carries an additional two years. There is such thing as a "petty theft with a prior." Which means, if you have been convicted of petty theft and are convicted of a second petty theft, the prosecution can charge you with a felony, which brings with it, felony sentencing.

Regardless if you've been charged with petty theft or grand theft, you face serious consequences. You could face jail time, prison sentencing, heavy fines, restitution to the victim, restitution to law enforcement, community service, counseling and probation or parole. You will also have a permanent criminal record which will affect your ability to gain future employment. If you or someone you love has been charged with a theft crime, an Orange County theft crimes attorney at the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry can help. Getting the help from an experienced criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between going to prison, to instead, getting your charges reduced and keeping your freedom.

Contact an Orange County Theft Crimes Lawyer at our firm right away for a free case evaluation.