Petty Theft Defense in CaliforniaCalifornia Penal Code § 488

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Watch: Petty Theft Crimes in California: Penalties & Defenses

Petty Theft Crimes in California: Penalties & Defenses

What counts as a violation of Penal code § 488?

Penal Code § 487 makes crimes involving stolen goods valued at more than $950 “grand theft crimes.”

Under Penal Code § 488, crimes involving goods valued at less than $950 are “petty theft offenses."

What is the punishment for violating Penal code § 488?

Petty theft is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in county jail and fine of up to $1,000.

What are the defenses to Penal Code § 488?

  • You had permission to use the property
  • You did not realize the property belonged to someone else
  • You were borrowing the property

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