Grand Theft Auto Defense in CaliforniaCalifornia Penal Code § 487(d)(1)

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Watch: Felony vs Misdemeanor Grand Theft Auto in California

Felony vs Misdemeanor Grand Theft Auto in California

What counts as a violation of Penal code § 487(d)(1)?

Penal Code § 487(d)(1) defines the crime of grand theft auto.

Under Penal Code § 487(d)(1) stealing a car is considered “grand theft.”

What is the punishment for violating Penal code § 487(d)(1)?

Grand theft is a wobbler offense meaning that it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

The maximum potential sentence for misdemeanor grand theft is up to one (1) year in county jail.

For felony grand theft, you may be sentenced to sixteen (16) months, two (2) years, or three (3) years of incarceration.

What are the defenses to Penal Code § 487(d)(1)?

  • You had permission to use the car
  • You did not realize the car belonged to someone else (you mistakenly believed it was your car)

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