A bicycle thief took the bait, stealing a strategically placed, secured bicycle, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
The theft did not work out well for the suspect. HBPD dispatch guided their police officers right to the suspect, who was arrested for grand theft. Most likely they had installed a GPS tag on the bicycle, making it easy to track it down after the theft.
The bike was safely recovered, and the suspect is now facing felony charges.
Criminals should do themselves a favor and avoiding stealing in Huntington Beach.
If only other cities in Orange County, such as Santa Ana, would operate similar stings to nab more thieves!
If the suspect in Huntington Beach is charged with grand theft for stealing a bicycle, here are the potential penalties under California Penal Code § 487:
- Grand Theft is a “wobbler” offense
- It can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances and the suspect’s criminal history.
- Misdemeanor Grand Theft
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Possible fines and probation
- Felony Grand Theft
- 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail
- May include fines, restitution, and formal probation
- Aggravating Factors
- If the theft involved organized activity (e.g., with accomplices), the sentence may be enhanced by 1 to 3 years
- Prior convictions can lead to harsher penalties
- Restitution
- The suspect may be ordered to repay the value of the stolen bicycle and any related damages