Shoplifting and Theft Charges in California
Theft occurs when someone takes property from another individual or business without permission or consent. It can happen when property is taken from a home, building, or directly from another person, or when goods or services are received without payment. Embezzlement of funds from an employer or fund is also considered theft.
In California, theft is a crime that can result in time in county jail or significant state prison time. If someone is arrested for theft, they will be held in the county jail until they pay bail or their case goes to trial.
Posting bail for theft is the quickest way to return home to friends and family and actively participate in your defense. If you or someone you care about is in jail for theft, call Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds today! A bail bond agent like Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds can help you post bail and get back home quickly. Call us for theft bail bonds assistance.
California PC Codes for Theft
In California, several different types of theft are defined by law:
- PC 484 – Petty Theft (Theft under $950)
- PC 532 – Theft by False Pretenses
- PC 503 – Theft by Embezzlement
- PC 487 – Grand Theft
- PC 459 – Burglary
- PC 530.5 (e) – Mail Theft
Theft may be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the value of the stolen item(s) and the circumstances surrounding the theft. First-degree burglary is always a felony, punishable by up to four years in state prison. However, petty theft (theft under $950.00) is typically considered a misdemeanor.
If you or someone you care about has been charged with theft, Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds can help ensure that they return home as quickly as possible. Our professional team is available 24/7 to provide the support you need during this difficult time.
Grand Theft Bail
The crime of grand theft involves stealing property valued at over $950. In California, grand theft is known as a “wobbler” offense because it can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on additional circumstances. Grand theft is defined in Penal Code 487.
PC 487 defines grand theft as “the unlawful taking of someone else’s property,” typically “valued at more than $950.00.” The penalty for grand theft can range from 12, 16, 24, or 36 months in jail and may include fines, court costs, and restitution payments.
While the charge of “grand theft” generally involves the taking of property valued at over $950.00, it can be charged in cases where the value is much less when certain items are stolen.
Grand theft occurs when:
- A person takes farm products (such as avocados, citrus, fruits, or vegetables) valued at $250 or more.
- Aquacultural products (such as shellfish or fish), valued at more than $250.00, are taken from a commercial or research facility.
- A person steals an item directly from another person.
- A person steals a car.
- A person steals a firearm.
Grand theft could be charged if a person did any one of several actions, such as:
- Shoplifting a $1,000 necklace
- Embezzling thousands of dollars from an employer or employee fund
- Stealing a car worth more than $950
- Breaking into someone’s home and taking property worth more than $950
If you or someone you know is facing charges of grand theft, a violation of PC 487, call Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds for help in getting out of jail and returning home as quickly as possible. Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds has locations all over Southern California and can have an experienced bail bondsman by your side in no time, providing the support and assistance you need during this challenging time.
Penalties and Sentences for Theft and Shoplifting
The penalties for committing petty theft under California Penal Code 484 & Penal Code 488 can range from three years of informal probation, up to six months in a county jail, and/or a maximum fine of $1,000.
Shoplifting is consistently classified as a misdemeanor. On the other hand, grand theft may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specific circumstances. A conviction for grand theft generally involves a sentence of up to one year in county jail. However, the sentence may be increased if the defendant has a prior criminal record, has been involved in similar criminal activities, or if the stolen property is valued at more than $65,000.
If you or a loved one is facing charges related to theft or shoplifting, it is crucial to secure the assistance of a knowledgeable bail bonds company like Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds. Our team of experts understands the complexities of the legal system and can help you navigate through this challenging time. With our support, you can return home quickly and focus on building a strong defense for your case. Contact Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds today to learn more about our services and how we can help you during this difficult period.
Types of Theft
In California, the laws clearly define the various types of theft that can occur in the state. These include:
- Petty Theft (Theft under $950) – PC 484
- Theft by False Pretenses – PC 532
- Theft by Embezzlement – PC 503
- Grand Theft – PC 487
- Burglary – PC 459
- Mail Theft – PC 530.5 (e)
Theft charges can be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the value of the stolen item(s) and the circumstances surrounding the theft. First-degree burglary is always considered a felony and is punishable by up to four years in state prison. However, petty theft (theft under $950) is typically categorized as a misdemeanor.
If you or a loved one has been charged with theft, Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds is here to help ensure a swift return home. Our team of experienced professionals understands the intricacies of the legal system and can guide you through the process of securing theft bail bonds in Southern California. Don’t let a theft charge disrupt your life any longer than necessary. Reach out to Roger Sayegh Bail Bonds and let us help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.