Grand Theft Threshold Increased from $400 to $950. (Stats. 2010, Ch. 693 [A.B. 2372])

New Law On Theft Offenses

As of January 1, 2011, the new threshold for a “grand theft” charge (Penal Code 487) has been increased to $950 or greater from the current amount of $400. This means that defendants are not in danger of facing grand theft charges until they are accused of taking goods valued at $950 or more.

Prior to this new law, an unlawful taking of another’s property was considered grand theft if the value of the goods taken amounted to $400 or more. Grand theft in California is a “wobbler” offense in that it can be prosecuted as a felony or misdemeanor depending on the circumstances. A felony conviction can result in a sentence of up to three years in state prison and a misdemeanor conviction can bring with it a sentence of up to one year in county jail. However, when the changes to the law go into affect, any theft of property valued at under $950 will be considered “petty theft” (Penal Code 488), which is a misdemeanor offense carrying up to six months in county jail.

California law defines theft as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent of keeping it permanently. Also falling under the theft category are crimes that involve fraudulently taking property that has been entrusted to you; defrauding someone using false representations or pretense; taking property by false premises; larceny; embezzlement; and larceny by trick and device (Penal Code 484).

If you or a loved one is charged with any theft offense, our experienced theft defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can assist you in possibly reducing your felony charge to a misdemeanor or requesting the court to impose probation instead of jail time. Our attorneys have been in practice for over 40 years and will work diligently to ensure that you achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Call us today at 888-749-0034. We will be there for you when you call.

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