Being charged with theft can drastically change your life. If you have been charged with stealing, we urge you to immediately consult with our reputable Corona theft lawyers at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry. We understand the stakes are high when faced with these charges, and we are committed to doing everything within our power to fight aggressively to protect your rights and freedom. Our legal team has over 40 years of experience defending theft charges and could advocate effectively to get you a positive resolution.
Types of Theft Crimes
Theft involves the unlawful taking of money or property that does not belong to the perpetrator with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Some theft crimes include identity theft, robbery, burglary, embezzlement, larceny, extortion, shoplifting, and grand theft auto. These crimes vary considerably in their seriousness, and therefore, so do the penalties for each crime.
For misdemeanor theft charges, penalties typically include up to one year in jail, hefty fines, community service, and probation. Felony theft charges carry penalties that include up to three years in state prison, substantial fines, felony probation, victim restitution, and community service. A skilled attorney in Corona could help someone facing any number of theft charges.
Shoplifting
California’s “Shoplifting Law” is defined under Penal Code 459.5 PC. Shoplifting is entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal property valued under $950. If the property has a value of $950 or over, the more serious crime of grand theft is charged. Shoplifting is charged as a misdemeanor under Proposition 47. Penalties for a misdemeanor shoplifting conviction include up to six months in jail, probation, and fines of up to $1,000. Defenses to these charges include a lack of intent, entrapment by police, lack of intent, and insufficient evidence to support a conviction.
Charges for Receiving Stolen Property
California Penal Code 496a PC defines the crime of Receiving Stolen Property as knowingly purchasing, obtaining, receiving, or enjoying the benefits of property you know, or should know, is stolen. A misdemeanor conviction carries penalties of substantial fines and up to one year in jail, while felony convictions can carry substantial time in state prison, restitution, felony probation, and hefty fines.
As previously stated, you can be found guilty of receiving stolen property if you knew or should have known the property was stolen. This element is typically more challenging for prosecutors to prove and is a commonly persuasive argument to defend clients against these charges.
What are Legal Defenses for Theft?
Defendants facing theft charges may believe they will not be able to avoid a conviction. This may not be the case. Several solid defenses could be used to fight the charges against you. Ultimately, our knowledgeable lawyers in Corona could determine an appropriate defense strategy after reviewing the facts of your theft case. Some of these defenses include:
- Lack of intent
- Insufficient evidence
- False accusation
- Mistaken Identity
- You accidentally took the property.
- You had permission from the owner to take the property.
- You believed you had the right to take the property.
Speak with Our Highly Regarded Corona Theft Attorneys
If you are being investigated for or charged with the crime of stealing, contact our Corona theft lawyers today. Our criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Scott D. Henry have the experience and dedication needed to fight for your freedom and future. Our years of defending our clients against serious criminal charges have earned us a reputation as one of the premier defense firms in this area. Contact our office today for a free, confidential case analysis.