The Irvine Police Department needs your help identifying a woman who stole packages from a Spectrum apartment mail room on three occasions.
The Irvine Police released several surveillance videos showing the woman taking a package in one video and sorting through mail, filling up a box, and taking off with the stolen items in another video. She even steals a pack of toilet paper!
In one video she is wearing a green tank top and black pants. In another she is wearing a similar outfit but this time she is in a pink top. Her race is difficult to determine. She is overweight and has her brown hair tied back in a bun.
If you know who she is please get in touch with spaulsen@cityofirvine.org or bnoelle@cityofirvine.org.
In California, the penalties for stealing packages or mail—such as in the case of the suspect at the Spectrum apartment mail room—depend on several factors including the value of the stolen items and whether identity theft is involved.
1. Mail Theft (Penal Code § 530.5(e))
Mail theft is typically charged as a misdemeanor under California law. This includes stealing letters, packages, or other mail from mailboxes, post offices, or mail carriers. The penalties include:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Or both jail time and a fine
- Probation may be granted instead of jail time, especially for first-time offenders
2. Theft Value Considerations (Proposition 47)
If the value of the stolen items is less than $950, the crime is considered petty theft, which is also a misdemeanor. Penalties include:
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- Fines
- Restitution and probation may be alternatives to jail
If the value exceeds $950, it may be charged as grand theft, which is a “wobbler” offense—meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Felony grand theft can result in:
- Up to 3 years in state prison
- Fines up to $10,000
3. Identity Theft Link
If the stolen mail is used to commit identity theft, the suspect could face felony charges. Felony identity theft carries:
- Up to 3 years in prison
- Fines up to $10,000
- Restitution to victims
- Permanent criminal record
Summary
So, depending on the circumstances—such as the value of the stolen packages and whether identity theft is involved—the suspect could face anything from misdemeanor charges with probation to felony charges with prison time.
She should be labeled as “COWARD ALERT”