On Saturday morning, a woman was caught on camera opening the trunk of a Tesla parked in an apartment garage on Miramonte, according to the Irvine Police Department.
The heist was captured on the Tesla’s video cameras.
Over $400 worth of Pokémon cards and personal property were taken from the victim’s vehicle.
If you can help the IPD to identify the suspect, please email tips to jsampson@cityofirvine.org.
If the suspect in the Tesla trunk theft is identified and charged, she could face the following penalties under California law:
- Vehicle Burglary: Entering a locked vehicle with intent to commit theft is considered second-degree burglary, which is typically a wobbler—meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison.
- Grand Theft: Since the stolen property (Pokémon cards and other items) was valued over $400, and current law sets the threshold for grand theft at $950, this may still be charged as petty theft unless other aggravating factors apply. However, if the total value exceeds $950:
- Misdemeanor Grand Theft: Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Felony Grand Theft: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail.
- Restitution: The suspect may be ordered to repay the victim for the stolen property.
- Fines: Fines can range up to $1,000 for misdemeanors, and $10,000 or more for felonies.
- Probation: Courts may impose probation instead of jail time, especially for first-time offenders.
- Criminal Record: A conviction could result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment and housing opportunities.