Last week, a male suspect tried to steal a car at a business near Hewes and N. Rancho Santiago and then fled, according to the Orange Police Department.
He didn’t account for two huge obstacles: an alert employee and his own terrible escape plan.
Realizing he was outmatched, the suspect ditched his bicycle in the creek-bed and he was then taken into custody by officers who followed him inside a drainage tunnel that was covered in grafitti.
Penalties faced by the theft suspect
The suspect likely faces a charge of attempted grand theft auto under Penal Code §664 (attempt) in conjunction with PC §487(d)(1) (grand theft auto).
- Grand theft auto is a “wobbler” — it can be charged as either a felony (16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in prison) or a misdemeanor (up to 1 year in county jail).
- Because it’s attempted, the possible sentence is generally half of what the full offense carries:
- Felony attempt: ~8 months to 1.5 years in state prison (half of 16 months–3 years).
- Misdemeanor attempt: up to ~6 months in county jail (half of 1 year).
Alternatively, prosecutors might charge joyriding (Vehicle Code §10851) if they determine intent was temporary:
- This is typically a misdemeanor: up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine up to $5,000.
Additional factors that could enhance the charges/penalties:
- If the suspect entered a business premise or took the bicycle to access the car, they could face commercial burglary under PC §459. This is a felony punishable by 2–6 years in state prison.
- If the bicycle or vehicle equipment was stolen or intended for resale, PC §496.5 could apply — though this is less likely unless evidence supports resale intent.
Expected fines and other penalties:
- Felony attempt can add fines up to $10,000, along with restitution.
- Misdemeanor attempt could include fines up to $1,000 and restitution.