Los Angeles Theft Crimes Defense Attorney
Theft crimes in Los Angeles range from minor shoplifting allegations to complex white-collar and federal fraud investigations.
While some theft offenses are charged as misdemeanors, others carry felony exposure, state prison time, immigration consequences, and lifelong damage to your record.
If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a theft offense, early legal representation can make the difference between dismissal, reduction, or conviction.
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 Considered Theft Under California Law?
Under California law, theft generally involves taking another person's money or property without consent, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
The severity of a theft charge depends on:
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The value of the property
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The type of property taken
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Whether force or deception was used
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Your prior criminal history
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Whether the offense crossed state or federal lines
Many theft crimes are classified as “wobblers,” meaning they may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies.
California Penal Code Section 802 establishes the statute of limitations for misdemeanors.
Petty Theft & Shoplifting – Penal Code 484 PC
California Penal Code 484 governs petty theft, including most shoplifting offenses.
Key Points:
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Property value under $950
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Commonly charged as a misdemeanor
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First-time offenses may qualify for diversion or infraction reduction
However, petty theft with a prior conviction may be charged as a felony, resulting in county jail or state prison.
Grand Theft – Penal Code 487 PC
California Penal Code 487 applies when property valued over $950 is taken.
Grand theft may involve:
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Money
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Vehicles
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Commercial property
Penalties can include:
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Jail or state prison
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Restitution
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Fines
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Probation or parole
A grand theft conviction can enhance future sentences.
Burglary – Penal Code 459 PC
California Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to steal or commit a felony.
Important Distinctions:
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Burglary does not require a theft to occur
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A third strike may result in a life sentence
First-degree burglary applies to inhabited dwellings and carries the harshest penalties.
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.
White-Collar & Financial Theft Crimes
Forgery – Penal Code 470 PC
Forgery involves altering or creating documents with the intent to defraud.
California Penal Code 475 prohibits possessing specific counterfeit financial documents or forged items with the intent to deceive a person, business, or financial institution.
Identity Theft – Penal Code 530.5 PC
Identity theft includes using personal identifying information to obtain money or credit and may trigger federal prosecution.
Money Laundering – Penal Code 186.10 PC
Money laundering involves disguising proceeds from criminal activity and is aggressively prosecuted at the state and federal levels.
Insurance Fraud – Penal Code 550 PC
Insurance fraud includes:
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Health insurance fraud
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Property and homeowners insurance fraud
Investigations often involve state agencies, insurance fraud divisions, and federal prosecutors. Convictions can lead to RICO exposure and civil lawsuits.
Organized Fraud & Federal Theft Offenses
Organized fraud may involve:
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Investment fraud
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Phishing schemes
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Counterfeiting
These cases are commonly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service, or Securities and Exchange Commission.
Common Theft Charges We Defend
We represent clients accused of:
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Shoplifting & petty theft
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Grand theft & grand theft auto
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Burglary & auto burglary
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Embezzlement & employee theft
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Credit card fraud
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Identity theft
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Organized fraud
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Welfare & workers' compensation fraud
California Penal Code 212 explains the element of fear in robbery cases. California Penal Code 213 sets the penalties for robbery convictions under California Penal Code 211.
California Penal Code 484e makes it illegal to steal, acquire, retain, transfer, sell, or possess credit card information, debit card information, or other access card account data.
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 Theft Crime Charges
Common defense strategies include:
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Lack of intent
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Mistaken identity
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Consent
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Unlawful search or seizure
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Insufficient evidence
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Violation of constitutional rights
Early intervention allows defense attorneys to:
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Challenge probable cause
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Seek dismissal or reduction
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Negotiate diversion or alternatives to incarceration
Why Theft Convictions Are So Dangerous
A theft conviction may be considered a crime of moral turpitude, which can result in:
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Deportation or immigration denial
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Loss of professional licenses
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Employment disqualification
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Permanent criminal record
Avoiding conviction—or reducing charges—is often the most critical goal.
Speak With a Los Angeles Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer
If a parole officer or law enforcement agency suspects a parole violation, the parolee can be arrested and held until a parole revocation hearing, according to California Penal Code 3056.
If you are facing theft charges, do not wait. Prosecutors move quickly, and evidence can disappear.
Contact Cron, Israels & Stark for an immediate consultation. Our attorneys aggressively defend theft crimes throughout Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley.
📞 Call (424) 372-3112 today