CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving Stolen Property In Los Angeles: Penalties & Defense

Possessing stolen property is a serious crime in Los Angeles, and the law firm advises you to be aware of the consequences that come with violating the Penal Code Section 496 PC. It is considered a crime to acquire, buy, conceal, or possess stolen property. Even if you have bought or possessed property stolen through fraud, theft, embezzlement or deceit, or acquired it through any other criminal means, you could face criminal charges.

Receiving Stolen Property Explained

If you have acquired stolen property, you could be charged with a crime. This applies when you buy or possess property illegally obtained by theft, fraud, embezzlement or deceitful means. Under Penal Code Section 496 PC, the recipient of the stolen property could be convicted if they knowingly received the item, or intended to help the thief in any way.
Although theft crimes are primarily based on the act of taking property, receiving stolen goods is considered a crime. It is illegal to acquire other persons’ property without their consent or to conceal it, unaware that it has been stolen.

Criminal Penalties for Receiving Stolen Property in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, receiving stolen property could be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the discretion of the district attorney and the value of the item. According to the Penal Code, the crime violates:

1. Penal Code Section 484 if the value of the property is below $400.
2. Penal Code Section 487 if the value of the stolen property is above $400.
3. Penal Code Section 459 if the crime is a first-degree burglary.
4. Penal Code Section 211 if the crime is a robbery.
5. Penal Code Section 504 or Penal Code Section 487(a), if the crime is the embezzlement of another person’s property.

If the value of the property in question is below $400, the offender might face a fine or imprisonment of up to a year in the county jail. However, the classification of the punishment depends on the judge’s discretion of the misdemeanor conviction. If the defendant has prior theft convictions, the penalty could be increased.

Receiving stolen property or aiding a thief may attract a felony conviction that may result in a county jail or state prison sentence of up to one year. The length of a prison term depends on the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the value of the stolen property.

Exceptions to Receiving Stolen Property

The law would not convict you for accidentally acquiring stolen property. The offense can only be charged if the recipient knowingly possesses the stolen item. If it is your case or your friend’s case, it is recommended to only seek the assistance of an experienced theft crimes defense lawyer. They will help prove that the police did not conduct a complete investigation before arresting the guilty party.

Defending Against the Charges

A well-qualified Los Angeles criminal defense attorney can come up with various defenses. Depending on the circumstances, the defendant could avoid conviction, fines, and even prison time entirely. Your conviction’s outcome significantly depends on the criminal defense lawyer you hire.

If you have been charged with receiving stolen property in Los Angeles, consult with our firm to help you obtain a positive outcome. We will discuss with you the facts of your case and help determine the defenses. Experienced and skilled attorneys at our law firm will assist you to avoid the maximum penalties.

Table showing the Criminal Penalties for Receiving Stolen Property in Los Angeles

| Criminal Penalties | Violation of | Prison sentence | Fine |
| — | — | — | — |
| Misdemeanor | Penal Code Section 484 | Up to a year in county jail | N/A |
| Misdemeanor | Penal Code Section 487 | Up to a year in county jail | N/A |
| Felony | Penal Code Section 504 | A year in county jail/state prison | A maximum fine of $1,000 |
| Felony | Penal Code Section 487(a) | A year in county jail/state prison | A maximum fine of $10,000 |
| Felony | Penal Code Section 211 | A year in county jail/state prison | A maximum fine of $10,000 |

Conclusion

Receiving stolen property is a grave offense in Los Angeles, and the law deals with it accordingly. That said, it would be to avoid acquiring or aiding in the acquisition of stolen property to protect yourself from the grave criminal consequences of such actions. In case you, a relative, or a friend gets charged with this type of crime, we recommend seeking legal assistance from a reputable law firm. Their skilled and experienced attorneys will help you avoid or lessen the penalties.