What Are Theft Crimes?
If you’ve recently been charged with a theft crime, you’ll want to know exactly what the charge means.
Theft Crimes
Los Angeles defines theft crime as the criminal act of taking another person’s property (or money) without the permission of the other person. In California, theft crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Misdemeanor or “Petty” Theft Crimes
Petty theft, or a misdemeanor theft crime, is when a person takes property or money valued at $400 or less. The punishment can mean a jail sentence of up to six months in jail, significant court fines, restitution to the victim and/or law enforcement for cost of investigation, community service, counseling, and probation. A petty theft offense can also be used in future charges – moving future “petty” theft into “felony” they. This is called a “petty theft with a prior.”
Felony or “Grand” Theft Crimes
Grand theft, or a felony theft crime, is when a person takes property or money valued at $400 or more. Punishment can mean prison time, high court fines, restitution to both victim and law enforcement, probation or parole, reimbursement for the cost of supervision, and counseling.
Common Theft Crimes
Here is a list of common theft crimes:
- Shoplifting
- Carjacking
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Armed Robbery
- Armed Robbery with a weapon
- Vehicular Theft
- Embezzlement
- Larceny
- Money Laundering
- Credit Card Fraud
- Identity Theft
Hiring a Theft Crime Attorney
If you have been charged with an theft crime – whether misdemeanor or felony – it’s important that you immediately hire a theft crimes attorney. An attorney will help to effectively argue your case to either get the case dismissed, or significantly reduce the charges you receive.
Source: Kraut Law Group, Theft Crimes, 2014
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