Grand Theft in California – Penal Code 487 PC
Grand theft is a serious property crime under California law. California Penal Code 487 PC defines grand theft as unlawfully taking another person's property when the total value exceeds $950.
If the value is $950 or less, the offense is generally charged as petty theft under Penal Code 484.
Because grand theft is classified as a “wobbler,” prosecutors may file charges as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case and the defendant's criminal history.
Our criminal defense attorneys regularly defend grand theft cases throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding counties.
Your best hope for a favorable outcome is with a highly experienced criminal defense attorney at Cron, Israels & Stark in Los Angeles. To schedule a consultation, call (424) 372-3112 or contact us here.
What Is Grand Theft Under Penal Code 487?
Grand theft—also referred to as grand larceny—occurs when a person unlawfully acquires property belonging to another person or entity without consent, and the value of that property meets the statutory threshold.
Grand Theft Value Threshold
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$950 or more, or
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Any firearm, or
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Any automobile
Even a single incident of shoplifting or theft can escalate to grand theft if the total value exceeds the legal threshold.
Is Grand Theft a Felony or a Misdemeanor?
Grand theft is a wobbler offense, meaning it can be charged as:
Misdemeanor Grand Theft
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Up to 1 year in county jail
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Fines and restitution
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Probation conditions
Felony Grand Theft
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16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail or state prison
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Significant fines
The decision to file felony charges often depends on:
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The value of the stolen property
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Prior theft convictions
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Whether weapons or vehicles were involved
Types of Grand Theft in California
There are several legally distinct forms of grand theft. Each has specific elements of the crime that prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
Common Types of Grand Theft
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Grand Theft by Larceny
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Grand Theft by Embezzlement
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Grand Theft by False Pretenses
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Grand Theft by Trick
Grand Theft by Larceny – Legal Elements
Grand theft by larceny occurs when someone physically takes and moves another person's property without permission.
To secure a conviction, the prosecutor must prove:
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You took possession of property owned by someone else without consent
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You intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property (or deprive them of a significant portion of its value or enjoyment)
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You moved the property, even slightly
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The value of the property was over $950, or it involved a firearm or an automobile
What appears to be a routine shoplifting case can quickly become a grand theft charge when the total value of merchandise exceeds the statutory limit.
Sentence Enhancements for High-Value Theft
California law allows additional prison time when the value of stolen property is exceptionally high.
Theft Value Enhancements
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Over $65,000 → +1 year
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Over $200,000 → +2 years
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Over $1,300,000 → +3 years
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Over $3,200,000 → +4 years
These enhancements can dramatically increase exposure in felony cases.
Related Offenses to Penal Code 487
Grand theft charges often overlap with other serious criminal allegations, including:
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Penal Code 487(d)(1) – Grand Theft Auto
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Penal Code 487(d)(2) – Grand Theft of a Firearm
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Penal Code 503 – Embezzlement
- BPC 7028 - Contracting Without a License
The distinction between theft, burglary, and robbery can have major sentencing consequences, making early legal intervention critical.
Related Legal Topics
- California Penal Code 490.4 pertains to organized retail theft, a crime involving coordinated efforts to steal merchandise from retail stores for resale or profit. It aims to target theft rings, repeat offenders, and those collaborating to execute large-scale retail theft schemes. California Penal Code 465 PC makes it a crime to unlawfully enter a locked vehicle or its trunk with the intent to commit theft or another felony upon entry.
- Under California Penal Code Section 496.5, it is a crime to knowingly possess property stolen from a vehicle with the intent to sell or exchange it.
- Under California Penal Code Section 504, a public officer commits embezzlement if they fraudulently misuse public funds or property beyond or in violation of their official authority.
Defenses to Grand Theft Charges
Every grand theft case is unique, but one element is central in nearly all prosecutions: intent.
Common Legal Defenses Include:
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Lack of intent to permanently deprive
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Mistake or accident
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Claim of right (belief you had permission or ownership)
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Insufficient evidence of value
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Unlawful search or seizure
If the prosecution cannot prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.
Alternatives to Jail Time
Even in felony cases, experienced defense counsel may be able to pursue alternatives such as:
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Probation
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Restitution programs
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Counseling or theft-related education programs
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Charge reduction to a misdemeanor
These outcomes often depend on proactive negotiation and early case strategy.
Speak With a Los Angeles Grand Theft Defense Lawyer
Grand theft convictions can permanently affect employment, licensing, and future opportunities. If you are under investigation or have been charged with grand theft, you should consult a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately.
Early representation can make the difference between dismissal, reduction, or long-term consequences.
Cron, Israels & Stark is here to help. Schedule your consultation at (424) 372-3112 or contact us here.