It was recently reported that in Columbus, Ohio, more than $100,000 went missing after a bag of cash fell from an armored car into an intersection. Passing motorists abruptly stopped to get grab handfuls of bills. About $100,000 was picked up by police officers and $12,000 more was returned by good Samaritans after the bag hit the pavement, was run over, and split open. About 15 to 20 people scrambled to grab cash. Local police reported that there were $20 bills everywhere and money was floating all over the street. The owner of the armored car company transporting the money complained that “it’s not free money” and “it’s different than walking down the street and finding a $5 bill laying there. This is clearly marked, identifiable money that belongs to somebody else laying in the middle of a busy intersection.” Police warned drivers that people who fail to return cash could face theft crime charges, including grand theft.
Similarly, in California, individuals who take property that is not theirs will face theft charges. California Penal Code Section 487 defines grand theft as the taking of money, labor, or real or personal property whose value exceeds $400. In addition, if the taking was less than $400 then the crime is called petty theft (See Penal Code Section 488).
If this had occurred in California, any of the drivers who stopped to take the money would be facing grand theft charges if the amount of money taken was more than $400. Punishment for grand theft crimes includes imprisonment not exceeding one year in the county jail or in the state prison.
If you or a loved one is facing charges for grand theft or any other theft crime, contact our Orange County theft crime attorneys at Wallin and Klarich. Wallin & Klarich will help protect your rights and find the best defense strategy for your case. For over 30 years, our attorneys have been helping clients get probation or community service in lieu of jail time. Please call us at (888) 280-6839 or visit our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.
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