In California, a theft crime is a criminal act of taking another’s property without consent.  In California, theft crimes are classified as grand theft or petty theft.  Petty theft occurs when the stolen property amounts to less than $400.00.  In most cases, petty theft is considered a misdemeanor.  Grand theft is when the amount stolen is greater than $400.00.  Many grand theft crimes are felonies.

When money, labor, personal property, or land is taken, a grand theft charge will occur if the amount totals more than $400 during any 12-month period.

Frequently committed theft crimes include: shoplifting, carjacking, burglary, robbery, armed robbery, credit card fraud, identity theft, vehicular theft, embezzlement, larceny, and money laundering.

Forgery

Forgery is the illegal act of making or altering a written document for the purpose of Forgery or deceit; for example, signing another person's name to a check.  Forgery can charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. It is very common to be charged with forgery and grand theft based on the same offense.

Burglary

Burglary is a felony and involves trespassing, or entering a building or remaining unlawfully with intent to commit any crime, not necessarily a felony or theft. A conviction for burglary may qualify as a conviction under a three strikes law or habitual criminal statute.

Receiving Stolen Property

In California, receiving stolen property is committed if you knowingly buy, sell, receive, conceal, or withhold stolen property. A receiving stolen property charge targets those who knowingly perform acts after the theft has been committed. This means that if you knowingly receive the stolen property, you may be prosecuted for this offense.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement is the act by which someone fraudulently takes ownership of some property that has been entrusted to him temporarily by another party

Robbery

Robbery is defined as theft by the threat of violence. Robbery is the crime of seizing property through violence or intimidation. Violence is the key element for most robberies. The punishment for robbery is state prison.  In addition, using a gun to commit a robbery will add an additional 10 years to a sentence. Discharging a gun will add 20 years to the sentence.

If you or someone you know is charged with a theft offense, the Law Offices of Tina M. Barberi can help.  Theft charges are serious and could affect your future. In California, defendants face aggressive prosecutors who bring all the resources of the government. Therefore, defendants need skilled and able attorneys who will fight for them.

view more