On September 18th, someone allegedly stole some generators from outside of a business on Avenue Scott in Valencia. Then, the next day, they returned and stole an air compressor from the same place. Santa Clarita Sheriff Station deputies, working with the Hesperia Police, conducted an investigation and identified three suspects, who were arrested on October 1st.

Apparently, the value of the stolen property is about $5,000, so the suspects are being charged with Grand Theft in relation to the crimes. During the arrest, it was discovered that two of the suspects had outstanding warrants. Additionally, a motorcycle that was reported stolen in an unrelated incident was found on the same property.

Grand Theft is covered under California Penal Code 487 PC and is described as unlawfully taking someone else’s money, labor, or property valued at $950 or more. When the value of stolen money, labor, or property is valued at less than $950, it’s typically charged as petty theft – a less severe crime.

Grand Theft is known as a “wobbler,” which means it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s prior criminal history. When charged as a misdemeanor, the potential penalties include up to 1 year in county jail. When charged as a felony, the potential penalties include felony probation with up to 1 year of jail time, or 16 months to 3 years in jail (unless the stolen item was a firearm).

When the stolen item is a firearm, the crime is always a felony. The potential penalties are the same as felony Grand Theft. However, Grand Theft Firearm is considered a “serious felony” under California Penal Code 1192.7(c) PC, making it count as a “strike” under California’s “Three Strikes Law.”

It’s unknown what charges, if any, are being pressed in relation to the stolen motorcycle.

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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