What Are Property Crimes in California?

Property crimes involve damage to or theft of someone else’s property. Under the California Penal Code, common property crimes include:

• Theft (PC §484, §488, §487) – Petty theft and grand theft, based on the value of the stolen property.
• Burglary (PC §459) – Entering a structure with intent to commit a felony or theft.
• Robbery (PC §211) – Taking property from another person by force or intimidation.
• Vandalism (PC §594) – Defacing, damaging, or destroying property.
• Arson (PC §451) – Willfully setting fire to property or structures.
• Trespassing (PC §602) – Entering or remaining on property without permission.
• Receiving Stolen Property (PC §496) – Knowingly receiving, buying, or hiding stolen goods.
• Embezzlement (PC §503) – Fraudulent appropriation of property entrusted to you.

These offenses range from misdemeanors to felonies and may involve enhancements such as prior convictions or use of a weapon.

Possible Penalties for Property Crimes in California

The consequences of a conviction depend on the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and aggravating factors. Penalties may include:

• Jail or Prison Time – Misdemeanors may carry up to 1 year in county jail; felonies can lead to multiple years in state prison.
• Fines & Restitution – Courts may impose significant fines and require you to pay restitution to the victim.
• Probation – You may be placed under formal or informal supervision with conditions.
• Criminal Record – A conviction can negatively affect employment, housing, and licensing opportunities.
• Strike Under Three Strikes Law – Certain property crimes may count as a "strike" under California's Three Strikes Law.

Defending Against Property Crime Charges

Every case is unique. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence against you. Common defenses to property crimes include:

• Lack of Intent – Many property crimes require intent. If it wasn’t deliberate, there may be no crime.
• Mistaken Identity – You were wrongly accused or misidentified.
• Consent – You had permission to be on the property or to take the item.
• False Accusation – You were set up or accused out of revenge or anger.
• Illegal Search & Seizure – If your rights were violated, key evidence may be thrown out.
• Insufficient Evidence – The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

As your attorney, we will analyze every detail, file necessary motions, negotiate for reduced charges—or take your case to trial if that’s what justice demands.

Serving Clients in Sacramento, Placer & El Dorado Counties

With years of criminal defense experience, we understand the unique legal landscape of local courts in:

• Sacramento County – From downtown Sacramento to Citrus Heights and Elk Grove.
• Placer County – Including Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, and Auburn.
• El Dorado County – Serving Placerville, South Lake Tahoe, and surrounding communities.