San Clemente Police Services sprang into action when suspects, linked to a $9K sunglasses heist at Mission Viejo’s Sunglass Hut, were spotted at the Outlets.
The sharp-eyed deputies tracked down all four culprits and recovered every stolen shade.
Big props to the Sunglass Hut team’s quick tip and epic teamwork.
Message to thieves: Steal in Mission Viejo, get caught in San Clemente!
Based on California law and recent updates, here’s what the suspects in the Mission Viejo Sunglass Hut heist could be facing:
1. Organized Retail Theft Charges
Since the suspects acted together and stole merchandise valued at over $9,000, they meet the criteria for organized retail theft under California Penal Code § 490.4.
- If charged as a felony, they face:
- 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison.
- Fines and restitution to the retailer.
- A possible restraining order barring them from entering the store or similar establishments for up to 2 years.
- If charged as a misdemeanor, they could face:
- Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Fines and probation.
2. Possession of Stolen Goods
If any of the suspects were found with the stolen sunglasses intending to sell, exchange, or return them, they could also be charged under PC 496.6, a separate offense:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail.
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail.
3. Aggregation Laws
California now allows prosecutors to aggregate the value of stolen goods across multiple incidents or locations to reach the felony threshold of $950
3. This means even if the thefts occurred in different cities (like Mission Viejo and San Clemente), they can be combined into one felony case.
4. Additional Penalties
- Sentencing enhancements may apply if the stolen goods were valued over $50,000, though that doesn’t appear to be the case here1.
- Probation conditions could include mandatory rehabilitation programs, especially for younger offenders.
- Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, including longer jail time and stricter probation terms.