4 Types of Grand Theft Charges in California

Posted on: July 3rd, 2023 by Dod Law

Grand Theft Charges

In California, grand theft is a serious crime that can lead to severe penalties. Understanding its implications and the complexities involved is crucial for anyone facing such charges. If you’re facing grand theft charges in California, you need knowledgeable and experienced legal assistance. 

The experienced criminal defense team at Dod Law, APC, based in San Diego, offers comprehensive legal representation, handling every aspect of your case and ensuring your rights are upheld. Our detailed understanding of California’s penal code, coupled with a thorough approach to defense, makes us a strong advocate on your side when dealing with serious charges like grand theft. 

Defining Grand Theft

Grand theft refers to the act of stealing property or resources above a certain value. Here are specific cases where an act can be classified as grand theft:

General Criteria for Grand Theft

Generally, an act is considered grand theft if the value of the money, labor, property, or personal item taken exceeds $950. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, certain cases are considered grand theft regardless of the $950 threshold. These include:

• Specific agricultural products, such as domestic fowls, avocados, olives, citrus fruits, or other farm crops, exceeding $250 in value.
• Aquacultural products, like fish, shellfish, kelp, and algae, from a commercial or research operation, exceeding $250 in value.

In both these cases, the stolen item’s value must be proven by presenting credible evidence that its wholesale value exceeded $250 on the day of the theft.

Types of Grand Theft Charges in California

There are multiple types of grand theft charges to be aware of, including:

Employee Theft

The crime of employee theft, also known as embezzlement, is considered grand theft if the total value stolen exceeds $950 over a 12-month period. The offender in this case could be an employee, an agent, or a servant who has stolen from their principal or employer. 

This type of theft is particularly serious because it involves a breach of trust. Employers entrust employees with access to company property and funds, and when that trust is violated, the law considers it a severe offense. 

Personal Theft

Personal theft covers situations where property is taken directly from another individual. This could involve stealing a purse from someone’s shoulder or a phone from their hands, for instance. This type of theft is considered grand theft irrespective of the stolen property’s value. 

It’s seen as a more severe form of theft, as it involves direct personal violation and could potentially lead to physical harm. The violation of personal space and the potential threat to personal safety elevate this crime to the level of grand theft, regardless of the monetary value involved.

Theft of Specific Types of Property

In the state of California, stealing certain types of property automatically qualifies as grand theft, regardless of their value. These items include automobiles and firearms. The reason for this is the potential harm that the theft of such items can cause. 

Automobiles, being high-value items, can significantly harm a person financially when stolen, and firearms pose a severe threat to public safety. When stolen, they can be used in the commission of violent crimes, making their theft an offense of grand theft, regardless of the firearm’s monetary value.

Aggregate Value

Also, if multiple thefts are committed as part of distinct but related acts and the cumulative value exceeds $950, these can be aggregated to charge a count of grand theft. This is provided the acts are driven by a single intention, impulse, and plan.

Don’t Face Grand Theft Charges Alone – Contact Dod Law, APC Today

If you’re facing grand theft charges, the experienced attorneys at Dod Law, APC in San Diego are here to guide you through the process and provide sound legal advice on your case. We are dedicated to protecting our client’s rights and interests throughout the criminal process.

With our team of lawyers with over 18 years of experience by your side, you can trust in our comprehensive, detailed approach to building an effective defense that meets your unique needs as a defendant. Reach out online or call us at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Vista office 760-814-6025 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.

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