Package Theft Lawyer in Los Angeles

What Is Package Theft?

Package theft, often referred to as "porch pirating” involves the act of stealing a package or parcel delivered to someone else's property. With the rise of online shopping, package theft has become increasingly common. Thieves typically target packages left unattended on doorsteps, porches, or lobbies of apartment buildings. This crime can happen anywhere, but urban areas with high package delivery volumes, like Los Angeles, are particularly vulnerable.

Package theft can range from a minor inconvenience to a federal crime and incur significant loss, depending on the value and importance of the stolen items. This type of theft not only causes financial loss to the victim, but can also lead to emotional distress and a sense of insecurity in one’s own home.

What Is the Punishment for Package Theft in California?

Misdemeanor Charges

For thefts involving items valued at $950 or less, the crime is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Package theft penalties for a misdemeanor, or a petty theft charges can include:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Probation
• Community service

Felony Charges

If the value of the stolen items exceeds $950, or if the offender has prior theft-related convictions, the charge can escalate to a felony. Felony package theft convictions carry more severe penalties, such as:

• 16 months to 3 years in state prison
• Substantial fines
• Formal probation

Additionally, under California's "three strikes" law, repeat offenders may face even harsher penalties, potentially including life sentences for multiple felony convictions.

Why You Need a Lawyer if You’ve Been Charged With Package Theft

Facing a package theft charge can be stressful and come with serious consequences. Here’s why hiring a package theft lawyer in Los Angeles should be your first step:

Legal Expertise

A knowledgeable lawyer understands the nuances of California theft laws and can navigate the legal system effectively. He or she can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your charges, potential penalties, and the legal process ahead.

Building a Strong Defense

A skilled attorney like William Kroger will work to develop a robust defense strategy tailored to your specific case. This might include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and identifying any procedural errors that could work in your favor.

Negotiating Plea Deals

In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal to reduce your charges or minimize the penalties. An experienced lawyer can advocate on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.

Protecting Your Rights

Throughout the legal process, it is essential to ensure that your rights are protected. A lawyer will ensure that law enforcement and prosecutors adhere to legal standards and that your constitutional rights are upheld.

What Are Some Legal Defenses for Package Theft?

There are several potential defenses a package theft lawyer might use to challenge the charges against you:

Lack of Intent

One of the key elements of theft is the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. If you did not intend to steal the package, your lawyer might argue that the requisite intent was absent, which could result in the charges being dropped or reduced.

Mistaken Identity

In some cases, the accused may be mistakenly identified as the thief. Surveillance footage and eyewitness testimony can sometimes be unreliable. Your attorney can challenge the accuracy of this evidence and work to prove your innocence.

Consent

If the package was taken with the consent of the owner, it is not theft. Demonstrating that you had permission to take the package can be a viable defense.

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence linking you to the theft, your lawyer can argue that the case should be dismissed.

Alibi

Providing evidence that you were elsewhere when the theft occurred can be a strong defense. Witnesses, time-stamped photos, or videos can help establish your alibi.

Entrapment

If law enforcement induced you to commit the theft that you would not have otherwise committed, this could be a defense. Entrapment is a complex defense and requires a thorough understanding of the law.

Legal Defense For Package Theft Charges

Facing package theft charges in Los Angeles requires a comprehensive legal strategy. Attorney William Kroger can provide the necessary expertise and defense to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

If you or a loved one is charged with package theft, contact our office today for a free consultation.

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