Rancho Santa Fe Theft Crime Defense Lawyers

Rancho Santa Fe Theft Crime Defense Law

Rancho Santa Fe is a relatively safe community with a crime rate lower than California's average. Only 6% of communities in the state have a lower crime rate than Rancho Santa Fe. This means your chance of becoming a victim of crime in the community is just 1 in 158.

Back to Top

Common Theft Crimes

However, in recent years, Rancho Santa Fe has seen a dramatic increase in crime. This has been a cause for concern for residents, who have long enjoyed the peace and security of this community. Some have suggested that the increase in crime is due to the influx of new residents unfamiliar with the community's rules and regulations. Increased financial strain brought on by the pandemic is also a major contributing factor. As a result of the increase in crime, residents are urged to report suspicious activity to the authorities.

The most common theft crimes in the area are:

• Shoplifting: entering a commercial establishment with intent to commit larceny while it’s open during regular business hours and the value of the property that is taken or intended to be taken is $950 or less.
• Burglary: the act of entering a structure (residential, commercial, or any other type of property) with the intent to commit grand larceny, petit larceny, or any other felony.
• Robbery: the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accomplished by means of force or fear.

Art theft is also surprisingly common around Rancho Santa Fe; it is estimated that millions of dollars’ worth of art is stolen each year. There are several reasons art theft is so prevalent in this area, including the fact that many of the homes in Rancho Santa Fe are large and have expensive art collections. Additionally, the area is home to many art galleries and museums, which thieves have been known to target.

Back to Top

What is Prop 47?

Prop 47 is a California ballot proposition that was passed in November 2014. The proposal changed certain nonserious and nonviolent crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. The crimes that were impacted by this proposition include petty theft, receiving stolen property, forgery, fraud, and writing bad checks. The passage of Prop 47 has significantly reduced the state's prison population.

Back to Top

What Should You Do After an Arrest in Rancho Santa Fe?

If you have been arrested for a theft crime in Rancho Santa Fe, it is essential to remain calm and cooperate with the police. It would help if you avoided resisting arrest or making any sudden movements, as this could potentially escalate the situation. You should comply with police if you are asked to provide your name, address, and date of birth. However, you are not required to answer any other questions, and you should politely decline if the police try to question you further. It is also essential to exercise your right to remain silent and not say anything that could be used against you in court.

If you have been arrested or accused of theft, it is crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. If you are convicted of theft, you may face severe penalties, including jail time, probation, and a criminal record. A theft conviction can also make it difficult to find employment and housing. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the possible consequences of a sentence.

After the arrest, you should keep in contact with your Rancho Santa Fe defense lawyer and keep a low profile. This means you should stay off social media and not break any other laws. You would want to remain silent until your court date is over, and you are cleared of all charges.

Back to Top

Hire a Lawyer if You’re Accused of Theft in Rancho Santa Fe

If you have been accused of theft, hiring a Rancho Santa Fe theft attorney to represent you is essential. jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. We can also help you understand the charges against you and your options. If you face a theft charge, do not try to go through the process alone; hire our lawyers to help you. Call (760) 630-2000 to schedule a consultation today.

Back to Top