Last Friday, police officers responded to a retail store for a theft in progress, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
As the suspects exited the store with stolen merchandise and entered a waiting vehicle, HB1 (the HBPD police helicopter) was already overhead, tracking their movements as they left the shopping center.
Guided by HB1, the police officers quickly located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop, detaining three suspects who were arrested for grand theft.
The stolen property was recovered and returned to the store.
Criminals from Los Angeles love to come to Orange County to commit crimes, only to find out our police departments do a great job and our OCDA is happy to prosecute them to the max. They really should stay home.
The suspects arrested for grand theft in Huntington Beach may face the following penalties under California law:
- Grand Theft (Penal Code § 487)
- Felony or misdemeanor depending on circumstances and prior record
- Up to 3 years in county jail if charged as a felony
- Fines up to $10,000
- Possible probation with conditions such as restitution and community service
- Conspiracy to Commit Theft (Penal Code § 182)
- If multiple suspects acted together, conspiracy charges may apply
- Penalties match the underlying offense (grand theft), with potential enhancements
- Use of a Vehicle in Commission of a Crime
- May result in additional charges or sentencing enhancements, especially if the vehicle was used to flee or transport stolen goods
- Prior Convictions
- If any suspect has prior theft-related convictions, they may face enhanced sentencing under California’s repeat offender laws
- Restitution to Victim
- Court may order repayment for any losses or damages not covered by recovery
- Criminal Record Impact
- A felony conviction can affect employment, housing, and future legal outcomes
Final charges and penalties will depend on the suspects’ criminal history, the value of the stolen merchandise, and prosecutorial discretion.