Receipt of Stolen Property

Any person who receives goods or property and knows the property has been stolen via fraud, theft, deceit, embezzlement, or other unlawful manner by another individual is guilty of receipt of stolen property. As trusted Los Angeles receiving stolen property defense attorneys, we understand the harsh consequences individuals may face if convicted of this offense. While usually charged as a misdemeanor, the negative impact to your career and reputation can be great. At The Justice Firm, we provide outstanding legal guidance and support to individuals accused of all types of crimes, including theft-related offenses.

Under California Penal Code 496 PC, it is against the law to buy, receive, sell, conceal, or withhold property which you know is stolen. An individual who actually commits the theft may be charged with PC 496, however it is more likely the perpetrator would be charged with another theft offense, such as Petit or Grand Larceny. Basically, the actual theft has already taken place; the person charged with receiving stolen property commits the above mentioned actions after the fact. Here are some examples of this crime:

• You offer your garage or storage shed for someone to store items or property you know were stolen
• You purchase a designer handbag at an unbelievably low price from a street vendor

When a person is arrested or charged with a crime, it does not indicate that he or she will be convicted. Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys have numerous defense strategies at their disposal, and will work vigorously to protect you from a conviction and the subsequent criminal penalties. Some of the most common defenses used on behalf of those accused of receiving stolen property include:

• Mistake of fact - you did not know that you were receiving property that was stolen
• Innocent intent - When you bought or received stolen goods or property, you intended to give it to police or return to its owner
• You were not aware you possessed goods/property that was stolen
• Violation of your constitutional rights or police/law enforcement errors

In addition, a person who was voluntarily intoxicated due to consuming alcohol or drugs may not be aware that he or she received stolen property. While this is not actually a defense, it could help disprove intent; in other words, it may be possible to prove that you did not intentionally or knowingly receive the stolen goods.

Receipt of stolen property is a "wobbler" offense in California, which means it may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on factors which include your criminal history, and the details of the case.

A misdemeanor conviction will leave you facing a maximum of one year in jail; there may be civil penalties as well.

A felony conviction will leave you facing prison time of 16 months, two or three years in California State Prison.

An individual may also face an enhanced sentence if the property which was stolen was a boat, car, trailer, or certain construction equipment. While the incarceration time will be the same, you may face an additional $1,000 fine if convicted of a misdemeanor, or up to $10,000 if convicted of a felony.

As you can see, the criminal penalties for receiving stolen property should not be taken lightly. At The Justice Firm, our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers will use our experience, skill, and aggressive approach to secure positive results in your case. Our top priority is protecting your freedom and helping you avoid serious criminal penalties. Contact us today at 310-914-2444.