Larceny, or theft, is a serious crime in California that can result in significant legal repercussions. If you have been arrested for larceny, it is important that you understand your legal options as well as the possible penalties associated with a conviction. Work with a Tehama County theft lawyer for skilled representation during your case.
What is Larceny in CA?
Larceny is simply another term for the criminal offense of theft. It is a crime against property and refers to the unlawful act of taking someone else’s property. Sections 484 to 488 of the California Penal Code define theft, petty theft, and grand theft.
Per § 484, a person is guilty of theft when they “feloniously steal, take, carry, lead, or drive away the personal property of another, or who shall fraudulently appropriate property which has been entrusted to him or her, or who shall knowingly and designedly, by any false or fraudulent representation or pretense, defraud any other person of money, labor or real or personal property, or who causes or procures others to report falsely of his or her wealth or mercantile character and by thus imposing upon any person, obtains credit and thereby fraudulently gets or obtains possession of money, or property or obtains the labor or service of another…”
Grand theft is the most serious theft offense in California. When a person is guilty of theft, as defined above, they can be charged with grand theft if any of the following are true.
- The value of the property taken exceeds $950
- The property taken is domestic fowls or farm crops exceeding the value of $250
- The property taken is aquaculture products from a commercial or research operation exceeding the value of $250
- The property is taken by an employee or agent from their employer and totals $950 or more over a 12-month period
- The property is taken from the person of another
- The property taken is an automobile or a firearm
Most other cases, especially ones involving the theft of property valued under $950, are considered petty theft.
What Are the Penalties for Larceny in CA?
If you have been arrested for theft in California, understanding the possible penalties associated with a conviction is important to prepare for your future and build a strong case. Petty theft is always considered a misdemeanor and is punishable by fines of up to $1,000 and up to 6 months in jail.
The penalties for grand theft are slightly more complex and vary depending on the details of the offense. In general, for property valued above $950, a conviction will result in one year in jail and fines of up to $5,000. However, if the grand theft involves a firearm, the defendant can be sentenced to state prison for a term of 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years.
For more information on your legal rights and options, contact Cohen Criminal Law to discuss your case with an experienced attorney today.