According to a recent article from Valley News, a man was arrested outside of a Lake Elsinore Lowe's Home Improvement store after authorities say that he tried to cash a stolen check. The police were notified that the man had entered the store, attempted to cash the check, and then left the location, the article stated. The suspect was reportedly arrested without incident.
The report did not state the amount that the check was for, but this information does make a difference when it comes to theft charges. Theft is sometimes referred to as larceny and it is defined by the taking of property without the owner's permission or consent. There are two types of theft: petty and grand.
Petty theft involves the theft of property valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting and fraud are two common forms of petty theft. Those accused of petty theft usually face a misdemeanor charge that, upon conviction, comes with the requirement to pay back the full amount of the item stolen. In addition, those convicted of theft often are ordered to complete community service.
Grand theft is the more serious of the two charges and involves the theft of property that is valued at $950 or more. Those who are accused of grand theft often face additional charges such as check fraud or burglary. Grand theft can be considered a felony or a misdemeanor offense, depending on the circumstances. It can result in jail time.
Not everyone who is accused of taking something that didn't belong to them actually did so with criminal intent. If you've been accused of theft, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you build your case. The Law Office of Nicolai Cocis would like to talk to you about your case. Our office is located near the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, California. We represent individuals charged with Criminal Offenses, DUI and Juvenile Matters in the Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Menifee, Winchester, Hemet, Corona and Riverside areas.
Don't face the system alone. Contact us today.