More retail thefts occurred at the mall in Santa Clarita, this time two in one day. Just after 5 pm Tuesday, Kohl’s on Valencia Blvd. had about $2,000 dollars worth of merchandise stolen by two suspects, a male and female, who were seen escaping in a gray SUV. About five minutes later, Macy’s was hit by two more suspects, this time two males, who allegedly stole about $250 worth of merchandise. According to reports, a security guard was punched by one of the fleeing suspects. They were seen driving away in a blue Honda.

Theft crimes are divided into a few different categories, largely dependent on the value of the stolen items. Those categories include grand theft, petty theft, and shoplifting, among others.

Grand theft is usually charged when the value of the stolen items is more than $950 – like the theft from Macy’s. It’s covered under California Penal Code 487 PC and is a “wobbler” that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanors carry the potential penalty of up to one year in county jail. Felony charges carry the potential penalty of felony probation with up to 1 year of county jail time, or 16 months to three years in county jail.

Petty theft is covered under California Penal Code 484(a) PC and is usually charged when the value of the stolen items is equal to or less than $950. The crime is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Additionally, a judge may choose to sentence someone to informal probation in lieu of jail time.

Since one of the people who stole from Macy’s hit a security guard, it’s likely that he will face additional charges, such as assault and/or battery. At the time of this writing, all four suspects are at large and being sought by deputies from the Santa Clarita Sheriff Station.

Robin Sandoval

Robin Sandoval

Robin Sandoval is a California Licensed Bail Bondsman and owner of SCV Bail Bonds. Robin writes blogs and articles to help increase community awareness of the bail industry. If you have questions or want to suggest a topic, email robin@scvbailbonds.com, visit www.scvbailbonds.com or call 661-299-2245.
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval

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