Two suspects broke into vehicles, stole goods and used stolen credit cards, in Irvine

Two vehicles parked in a parking structure at Main St. and Mercantile were broken into on two different days, according to the Irvine Police Department.

Two suspects were recorded using the victims’ stolen access cards. The damage to the vehicles totalled $1,400 in damages, and they stole $5,472 worth of goods while ringing up $2,581 in fraudulent charges on stolen credit cards.

The female has tattoos of “Zero” from Nightmare Before Christmas, a jack-o-lantern, and a pawprint with the name “Bella” on her right arm. Her dark hair was tied up in a bun. The male suspect was wearing a UCLA sweatshirt and has greasy-looking long dark hair. They both appear to be Hispanic.

f you can help to identify these suspects, please email amena@cityofirvine.org.

In California, the penalties for the crimes you’ve described can be quite severe. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Breaking into Cars and Causing Damages:
   • Auto Burglary: Entering a locked vehicle with the intent to steal or commit a felony is considered auto burglary. This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. As a misdemeanor, it can result in up to 1 year in county jail. As a felony, it can lead to 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison.
   • Vandalism: Causing $1,400 in damages falls under vandalism. Since the damage exceeds $400, it is considered a felony, punishable by up to 3 years in state prison.
2. Stealing Goods from Cars:
   • Grand Theft: Stealing goods worth $5,472 qualifies as grand theft, which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 1 year in county jail, while a felony conviction can lead to 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison3.
3. Fraudulent Charges on Stolen Credit Cards:
   • Credit Card Fraud: Making $2,581 in fraudulent charges is considered grand theft if the total exceeds $950. This can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 1 year in county jail, while a felony conviction can lead to 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison.

These penalties can be compounded if the individual has prior convictions or if multiple charges are pursued concurrently. 

Art Pedroza Editor

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

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