Fresno Theft Crime Lawyer

Defending Against Theft Crime Charges in the Central Valley

Criminal acts, which consist of taking another person's money or property without their permission, are classified as "theft crimes." Under California law, these can be prosecuted as either a felony or a misdemeanor. Our law firm consists of experienced criminal defense attorneys, former prosecutors, and former law enforcement officers. We have defended hundreds of criminal theft cases and have the skill, knowledge, and experience to fight for you.

Have you been accused of theft? Call Wapner Jones, PC today at (559) 257-4707 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our theft crime attorney in Fresno.

Theft Crimes in California

California theft crimes include the following:

• Burglary - Penal Code Section 459 PC
• Robbery - Penal Code Section 211 PC
• Shoplifting or petty theft - Penal Code Section 484 PC
• Grand Theft - Penal Code Section 487(a) PC
• Carjacking - Penal Code Section 215 PC
• Petty Theft with a Prior - Penal Code Section 666 PC
• Armed Robbery - Penal Code Section 211 PC
• Armed Robbery with a weapon - Penal Code 12022 PC
• Vehicular Theft - Vehicle Code Section 10851 VC
• Embezzlement - Penal Code Section 503 PC
• Credit Card Fraud - Penal Code Section 484(e) PC
• Larceny
• Money Laundering
• Identity Theft

What are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in CA?

The type of theft crime charged and applicable penalties will depend on the type of item stolen, the value of the items, criminal history, and the facts surrounding how the theft occurred. For repeat offenders, the sentences may be increased to several years in jail, in addition to all the other penalties. These crimes carry severe punishments with consequences that will affect a person for the rest of their life, including their reputation and standing in the community.

Misdemeanor vs Felony Theft

Petty theft is the taking of money or property valued at $400 or less. This is treated as a misdemeanor, and penalties can include up to 6 months in jail, court fines, restitution, fees and costs of the investigation, community service, mandatory counseling, and probation. A conviction for a theft crime, even if it is a misdemeanor, can be used against you to enhance a future theft into a felony. Petty theft with a prior is treated as a felony under the California Penal Code, section 666.

When you have a previous petty theft conviction with any amount of jail time, then the prosecutor will treat a subsequent theft as a felony offense. Petty theft with a prior has a possible jail time of up to 3 years, in addition to the court fines and fees, counseling, parole, probation, restitution, and community service.

Taking another's property or money valued at more than $400 is grand theft. Grand theft is a felony. Felony theft is punishable by years in prison, court costs and fees, restitution, parole or probation, and counseling. If you have any prior theft offenses, then penalties can be enhanced and include additional fines and jail time.

Contact Our Theft Crime Attorney in Fresno Today

Our attorneys have been helping clients throughout Fresno, Kings, Tulare, and Madera counties. We have successfully represented clients facing theft charges. At Wapner Jones, PC, we have the skills, knowledge, and professional representation to guide you through the legal process from beginning to end. If you are being investigated for stalking or have been charged, or if you have questions about any other criminal charges, do not hesitate to contact us today.

 Contact Wapner Jones, PC today to get started on your defense with our Fresno theft crime lawyer.