California Penal Code §484(a) defines the crime of “petty theft” as wrongfully taking or stealing someone else’s property when the value of the property is $950 or less. If the value of the stolen property is greater than $950, then the more serious crime of grand theft will be charged.

The District Attorney’s office must prove: (1) the defendant took possession of property owned by someone else; (2) the defendant took the property without the owner’s consent; (3) when the defendant took the property, he intended to deprive the owner of it permanently; and (4) the defendant moved the property, even a small distance, and kept it for any period of time.

Petty theft is a misdemeanor punishable by probation, fines, restitution, and/or up to 6 months in the county jail.

Dallis Cavallaro with Cavallaro Criminal Law, P.C. knows how to defend against petty theft charges. If you have been accused of petty theft, contact us for a free consultation.