Last Friday, a man stole an armload of golf clubs from the PGA store valued at over $10,000, according to the Irvine Police Department.
But this was not his first time on the course, because he had stolen $3,000 worth of clubs last month.
However, Irvine police detectives scored a hole-in-one and ended up arresting Marcus Anthony Watts, 39, of Gardena.
Criminals do not realize that the Irvine Police have license plate readers scattered throughout the city. That is how the detectives track down the suspects. That was Watts’ undoing.
Watts was booked at the Orange County Jail, scoring a bogey.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties Watts may now face under California law:
1. Grand Theft Charges
- Definition: Grand theft in California applies when the value of stolen property exceeds $950.
- Classification: It’s a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances and the suspect’s criminal history.
2. Penalties
- Misdemeanor Grand Theft:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Felony Grand Theft:
- 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison
- Fines up to $10,000
3. Repeat Offender Considerations
Watts has prior arrests for theft-related crimes, including organized retail theft and burglary
1. This history could lead to:
- Sentencing enhancements under California’s Three Strikes Law, if prior convictions were serious or violent felonies.
- Harsher penalties, especially if prosecutors pursue felony charges.
4. Additional Consequences
- Restitution: He may be ordered to repay the value of the stolen goods.
- Probation: If granted, it could include conditions like community service, theft education classes, and staying away from the store.
- Gun Rights: A felony conviction would result in the loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
- Immigration Impact: Theft is considered a crime of moral turpitude, which could have deportation consequences for non-citizens.