Two Theft-Related Crimes That Are Overwhelming Law Enforcement

Although burglary and robbery are better-known theft-related crimes, two others are overwhelming police departments throughout California. Under the theft umbrella, larceny and extortion are also punishable crimes and more common than many realize. If you have been charged with larceny, extortion, or another theft-related crime, finding professional legal counsel immediately is the only sure way to get the best possible outcome for your case. California is tough on crime, and criminal charges that result in conviction are devastating. Be sure to hire an experienced theft defense attorney to spearhead your case and fight relentlessly for reduced charges. A professional defense lawyer with experience helping clients facing theft-related charges ensures your case is handled correctly from the beginning, including all the details that can work favorably on your behalf.

The Theft Umbrella

Theft is when someone takes personal property from another person, preventing them from having it. To qualify, the "taking" must be done without consent, which is considered theft in the eyes of the law. Theft can cover cash, technology, real estate, and more. If someone takes something from you without consent, that is considered theft. If you are accused of taking something from someone else, that is also considered theft. Although many people think of theft in the movie sense, with impressive bank heists, it is often someone known by the victim, including family and friends.

If you have been accused of any theft-related crime and are facing charges, it is best to get a free consultation with an experienced and reputable theft attorney. Sharing the details of your case allows someone to develop the best defense for your unique case thoughtfully. A criminal defense attorney will ensure she gathers all relevant information, and that any misunderstandings or flimsy evidence are countered and dismissed from your case. Avoiding conviction and keeping theft-related crimes off your permanent record is essential.

Extortion Crimes in California

One of the main differences between extortion and other theft-related crimes is that it is by force and threats. Some well-known blackmail cases are newsworthy, and we have witnessed several extortion cases in California where an expose of a star's behavior is used as a threat. Sex tapes, affairs, or other damaging evidence are often at the core of the threat in extortion cases. The defendant is accused of demanding money (typically but can involve different things of value) in exchange for being quiet.

Since social media sites allow anyone to post information, many Californians find the threat of sharing embarrassing or damaging photos or videos is becoming a reality. As the number of extortion cases increases, local law enforcement offices are overwhelmed. Three things must be present in extortion charges: a threat, fear of that threat, and intent to force something to be handed over by the victim.

Larceny Crimes in California

Larceny includes shoplifting, theft from vehicles, and fraud. Larceny is taking personal property unlawfully with the intent to deprive the owner permanently. A strong defense a professional larceny defense attorney can use is that the property was not taken without the intention of returning it. Larceny is different from robbery because robbery uses force, and larceny does not. Grand larceny is when what is taken has a high value. Petty larceny is for goods valued under $750. Several factors come into play when something is taken that holds greater emotional value than market value, and you want someone fighting on your side if this is the case.

Larceny is something that most people have probably committed at some point in their life without realizing it. If an employee takes an inexpensive item from their office, they have committed larceny. If an employer chooses to press larceny charges, the defendant should immediately contact an established theft-related defense attorney so that every step is handled professionally. It does not cost anything to call for a free consultation, and most clients facing theft-related charges have no idea how significantly a criminal defense attorney can help.

The burden of proof falls on the prosecution to show that the property was stolen through deceit and intended to be permanently taken from the owner’s possession without permission. Seeking a professional larceny attorney provides constant support and clear communication throughout the process, helping clients understand options and which defense is the strongest. An excellent larceny defense attorney will know how to challenge testimony and keep charges to a misdemeanor.

Experience Matters

Experienced defense attorneys understand how the prosecution is going to approach theft-related cases. Expert knowledge fighting against extortion and larceny cases can only come from a professional who has successfully helped other clients fight similar charges. If you are in San Diego, there is no better theft-related criminal defense attorney than Joni Eisenstein. Attorney Eisenstein has helped countless clients in San Diego County for the last three decades. Clients praise Eisenstein’s dedication, relentless efforts, and how she helped them through difficult times.