Theft Crimes
Theft in the Workplace: When Employee Accusations Lead to Criminal Charges
Accusations of theft in the workplace are among the most damaging charges an employee can face. In San Diego and throughout California, an employer’s internal investigation can quickly escalate into criminal charges, even if the evidence is weak or the accusation is based on a misunderstanding.
Fighting Petty Theft Charges in San Diego: Legal Defenses That Work
Being accused of petty theft in San Diego can be stressful and intimidating. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can affect your future job prospects, housing opportunities, and your reputation.
Repeat Theft Offender? Why Prosecutors in San Diego Are Seeking Tougher Penalties in 2025
If you’ve been arrested for theft before and are now facing new charges in San Diego, your case may be more serious than you realize. In 2025, prosecutors throughout San Diego County are ramping up efforts to penalize repeat theft offenders more aggressively, using enhanced sentencing laws and prior convictions to push for felony convictions and longer jail terms.
Think Petty Theft Does Not Matter? In 2025, You Could Still End Up With a Felony on Your Record
People arrested for petty theft in San Diego might think it is no big deal. They may assume the charge will disappear or that they will only get a slap on the wrist. In 2025, that is a dangerous assumption.
Arrested for Auto Theft in San Diego? Here Is How Rising Crime Stats Could Impact Your Sentence
Auto theft is on the rise in San Diego, and judges and prosecutors are taking notice. If you were arrested for stealing a car, you are facing serious criminal charges, and the justice system is being influenced by public pressure.
Mental Health and Theft Charges: Could San Diego’s Diversion Programs Keep You Out of Jail?
Mental health issues can complicate every aspect of a person’s life, including interactions with the criminal justice system. In California, a growing number of theft cases involve individuals struggling with mental health conditions.
What Is First-Degree Burglary in California?
In California, burglary is defined as entering a building with the intent to commit theft or any felony. This means you do not actually have to steal anything to be charged with burglary.
What Constitutes ‘Organized Retail Theft’ in California?
When two or more people work collectively to take merchandise from a store and profit from this activity, the legal penalties can be harsh. You may be facing serious jail time if prosecutors can prove that you were acting as part of an organized criminal enterprise. That is why you will want to speak with an experienced San Diego theft defense lawyer right away and never talk to the police unless your attorney is present.
The Legal Concept of ‘Intent’ in Theft Crime Cases
Intent in criminal law refers to the mental determination and willingness to achieve a particular outcome. In California, legal intent is split into specific and general categories. For theft crimes, proving specific intent is essential for criminal conviction.
Theft and Socioeconomic Factors: The Link to Poverty
Theft crimes range from basic shoplifting charges to white-collar crimes involving millions of dollars. In California, the monetary value involved has a lot to do with the penalties assigned if the person accused is convicted. While theft comes in all shapes and sizes, a quick review will show that some geographic regions are more prone to petty theft, shoplifting, and robberies than others. One thing these areas often have in common is poverty.
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- September 10, 2025
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