Per California law, all theft crimes, including petty theft, fall under the Penal Code Section 484 PC. As defined by the law, Petty theft is any theft of a property that has a value of $950 or less. Most often, petty thefts are charged as misdemeanors and can lead to up to six months of county jail time, a fine of no more than $1,000, or both. 

Not all theft is the same, and so the potential seriousness of its charges depends on the details of the crime. We all know that stealing a t-shirt for $20 cannot be treated the same way as stealing $125,000 in jewelry; that’s why there are distinctions between the different forms of theft.

It is our nature to inquire about cost. When purchasing a car, home, groceries, or even a night out at a restaurant, we want to know the cost associated with the goods or services. That is a representation of monetary cost or value, but there is a non-monetary cost associated with a criminal charge and conviction as well.

In 2014, the citizens of the State of California voted to pass Proposition 47, which significantly reduced sentences of specific crimes committed within the state. Shoplifting is one of those charges making this offense a “wobbler” offense. In certain circumstances, the charge of Shoplifting (prior to 2014) may have been charged as a felony. Proposition 47; however, modified these guidelines by reclassifying Shoplifting as a misdemeanor in some cases.

In 2002, a popular Hollywood actress was charged and convicted of shoplifting in Los Angeles, California. During the commission of her offense, she had made a purchase, but then placed additional items in her bag before leaving the very popular Saks Fifth Avenue store. Her defense; however, claimed that she believed that she had an “open” account while she shopped and she would simply be charged later. In the end, a jury of six men and six women found her guilty of felony shoplifting.

It’s important to understand the penalties or punishments of criminal actions and the extent to which a conviction could affect everyday life long after a prison sentence is served. In California, punishments for theft, burglary, and robbery vary depending on several factors.