Theft Crimes Attorney Serving All Of Sonoma County
The FBI’s definition of theft and property crimes includes the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The object of the theft-type offenses is the taking of money or property, but there is no force or threat of force against the victims. As of 2016, California is home to 9 of the top 10 cities in the nation for vehicle theft. Although robbery involves taking property, it is classified as a violent crime, as force or threat of force on an individual that presently is involved; in contrast to burglary, which is typically of an unoccupied dwelling or other unoccupied building. A Santa Rosa Theft Crimes Lawyer can assist you if you’ve been accused or charged with a theft crime.
Types of Theft and Property Crimes
Burglary
Burglary of residences, retail establishments, and other commercial facilities involves breaking and entering, and stealing property. Attempted forcible entry into a property is also classified as a burglary.
Theft
Theft of cash is most common, over everything else, followed by vehicle parts, clothing, and tools. Shoplifting is a specific type of theft, with products taken from retail shops without paying. Popular shoplifting items include cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, and fashionable clothing.
Motor Vehicle Theft
Motor vehicle theft is a common form of property crime. About 15-20% of motor vehicle thefts are committed for their auto parts or with the intent of reselling them on the black market. Some car types are more popular with thieves, with sports cars often being preferred by those stealing cars for joyriding.
Arson
Arson involves any intentional fire setting or attempting to set a fire. A frequent motive for arson is insurance fraud, with the fire staged to appear accidental. Other motives include a desire to commit vandalism, for thrill or excitement, for revenge, to conceal other crimes, or as a hate crime.
The type of and seriousness of charges related to theft and property crimes can be wide-ranging. The determination of the type of crime and the seriousness of the crime is dependent on the nature of what was supposedly taken, how much it was worth, where it was taken from, and the manner in which it was taken.
Theft and Property Crimes Statistics
According to the FBI, US Department of Justice, some of the statistics for 2015 are as follows:
- In 2015, there were an estimated 7,993,631 property crime offenses in the nation. The 2-year trend showed that property crime offenses declined 2.6 percent in 2015 when compared with the 2014 estimate. The 10-year trend showed that property crime offenses decreased 20.2 percent in 2015 when compared with the 2006 estimate.
- In 2015, the rate of property crime was estimated at 2,487.0 per 100,000 inhabitants, a 3.4 percent decrease when compared with the 2014 estimated rate. The 2015 property crime rate was 14.4 percent less than the 2011 estimate and 25.7 percent less than the 2006 estimate.
- Larceny-theft accounted for 71.4 percent of all property crimes in 2015. Burglary accounted for 19.8 percent, and motor vehicle theft for 8.9 percent.
- Property crimes in 2015 resulted in losses estimated at $14.3 billion.
Punishments for theft and property crimes may range from as small as fine to lengthy periods of imprisonment. Theft will either be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony based on the value of the items stolen. Possible punishments for theft or property crimes may include:
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution
- Jail or prison time
- Community supervision
Contact a Santa Rosa Theft Crimes Lawyer
It is vital that you consult with a skilled Santa Rosa Criminal Defense Attorney to apprise you of the possibilities and consequences. The attorneys at Vandyk Law are experienced and knowledgeable in defending all types of theft and property crimes. We will effectively evaluate your case and pursue the best course of action in order for you to receive the most favorable outcome. We have extensive knowledge and experience in all theft-related crimes having successfully dealt with hundreds of these cases – both felonies and misdemeanors. Our office is located in Santa Rosa and we work with clients throughout Sonoma County. Contact Vandyk Law today at (707) 528-1100 if you have been arrested on a theft-related crime.