In September, the Irvine Police Department asked for help identifying a female suspect who stole a car using fraudulent means.
That female suspect has been identified as Stacey Marie Martin, 31, of Hemet. Unfortunately, she has been eluding Detectives with a felony warrant for her arrest.
If you have information about where the IPD might find her, please email amena@cityofirvine.org.
ORIGINAL POST 09/25/2024 – #WANTEDWEDNESDAY – This woman is suspected of using a stolen driver’s license to create a fraudulent account to rent a vehicle on Turo.
The car was reported stolen by the owner and recovered in Riverside County.
If you can help us identify her, please email amena@cityofirvine.org.
If Stacey Marie Martin is convicted of the crimes described—identity theft and auto theft using fraudulent means—she could face serious penalties under California law.
Identity Theft (California Penal Code § 530.5)
This is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances.
- Misdemeanor Penalties:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Summary probation
- Felony Penalties:
- 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail
- Fines up to $10,000
- Formal probation
- Restitution to victims
Factors that increase the likelihood of a felony charge include:
- Use of a stolen driver’s license
- Intent to defraud
- Multiple victims
- Prior criminal history
Auto Theft (Grand Theft Auto – Penal Code § 487(d)(1))
If the vehicle was worth more than $950, this is considered grand theft auto, also a wobbler offense.
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail
If she has prior convictions or if the theft involved organized fraud, the penalties could increase to 2, 3, or 4 years.
Additional Charges That May Apply
- Forgery (PC § 470) – for falsifying documents or signatures
- False Personation (PC § 529) – for using another’s identity to gain a benefit
- Possession of a Stolen Vehicle (PC § 496d) – also a wobbler with up to 3 years in jail
Other Consequences
- Loss of gun rights (if convicted of a felony)
- Deportation risk (if not a U.S. citizen)
- Permanent criminal record, affecting employment and housing