Earlier this month, police officers were patrolling the Walmart parking lot when loss prevention staff flagged them down to report a woman who had just left the store with unpaid merchandise, according to the Irvine Police Department.
The police officers caught up to her at her car and quickly recovered the stolen items.
Tara Ozelle Ricci, 49, of Costa Mesa, was arrested for shoplifting.
Tara Ozelle Ricci, arrested for shoplifting in Irvine, faces penalties under California Penal Code §459.5, which defines shoplifting as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.
Here’s a breakdown of the penalties she may face:
Legal Classification
- Misdemeanor: If the value of the stolen items is $950 or less, the offense is classified as petty theft/shoplifting, a misdemeanor.
Potential Penalties
- Jail Time: Up to 6 months in county jail.
- Fines: Up to $1,000.
- Probation: Typically 1 to 2 years of summary probation.
- Restitution: Payment to the store for the value of the stolen goods.
- Civil Demand: The store may also send a civil demand letter requesting reimbursement for losses and administrative costs (up to $500).
Repeat Offender Consequences
- If Ricci has prior theft-related convictions, she could face:
- Felony charges under California’s repeat offender laws.
- Up to 3 years in county jail and fines up to $10,000.
Diversion Options
- First-time offenders may be eligible for a pretrial diversion program, which could include:
- Community service
- Anti-theft classes
- Restitution
- If completed successfully, the charges may be dismissed.