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California has seen a dramatic rise in retail theft, organized shoplifting rings, and smash-and-grab robberies in recent years. New criminal laws took effect in 2025 to address the problem and improve public safety. These statutes expand arrest authority and allow for longer probation terms, felony aggregation provisions, and harsher penalties for large-scale or violent thefts.
If you’re accused of a retail crime, knowing how they work can help you understand what you’re up against. The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling provides aggressive criminal defense services for clients charged with all kinds of theft offenses. With over 20 years of experience as a public defender and private criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, Justin E. Sterling and his legal team can develop a strategic plan to address the allegations against you and fight for the best possible result. Contact us today for a consultation.
New Retail Theft and Property Crime Laws in California
California passed landmark legislation in response to the spike in retail theft and property crimes like vehicle theft, cargo theft, and organized retail theft. The state’s new laws represent an aggressive policy shift against organized theft rings and repeat offenders. Here’s what you need to know:
Aggregation of Theft Value Across Jurisdictions
Under AB 2943 and SB 905, prosecutors can now aggregate, or combine, the value of stolen goods across multiple incidents and jurisdictions to meet the felony grand theft threshold of $950. This reform is particularly impactful in organized retail theft cases, where suspects often commit smaller-scale property theft in different counties to avoid felony prosecution. The new law closes that loophole by allowing cumulative valuation in charging decisions.
New Felony Crime: Possession of Stolen Goods with Intent to Sell
AB 2943 creates a standalone offense for knowingly possessing more than $950 in stolen property with the intent to sell, exchange, or return it. This charge does not require prosecutors to prove that the defendant knew the goods were stolen.
Expanded Shoplifting Enforcement
AB 2943 also permits law enforcement officers to arrest a person for shoplifting without witnessing the act as long as they have probable cause. It also extends probation periods for petty theft and shoplifting from one year to two years, increasing supervision and rehabilitation options. Courts may refer individuals under the age of 25 to diversion and rehabilitation programs instead of standard sentencing.
Retail Theft Restraining Orders
Under AB 3209, courts may now issue “retail theft restraining orders” for individuals convicted of shoplifting, theft, vandalism, assault on retail employees, or related offenses. These orders can prohibit the person from entering specific businesses or all locations of a retail chain for up to two years.
Sentencing Enhancements for Property Damage and Fire-Setting
Two significant sentencing provisions are part of SB 1242 and AB 1960. These laws mandate higher penalties for:
- Setting fires in connection with organized theft
- Causing damage or destruction exceeding $50,000 during a felony theft or property crime
These enhancements penalize highly destructive smash-and-grab operations, especially those targeting high-value merchandise through extreme tactics.
Oversight of Online Sales Platforms
SB 1144 requires online marketplaces to collect identifying information from all “high-volume third-party sellers.” This change aims to curb receiving stolen property or selling it through online platforms. It also holds platforms more accountable for any criminal activity happening through their services.
Consolidation of Multi-County Charges
Prosecutors can now consolidate theft-related charges and related offenses across county lines into a single criminal case. This reduces the administrative burden on the courts.
These reforms give California law enforcement and district attorneys stronger legal tools to deter and prosecute theft offenses.
Anyone facing retail theft charges under these new statutes should contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer immediately for legal representation.
How Will These Changes Affect You?
California’s new retail theft and property crime laws have tougher penalties and broader enforcement tools. Here’s how this may affect you:
People accused of retail theft:
- Felony charges are now more likely due to new rules allowing case consolidation and aggregation of stolen value across counties.
- Possession of stolen merchandise over $950 with intent to sell is a new standalone crime, and district attorneys don’t need to prove you knew the items were stolen to secure a conviction.
- Probation terms have increased to two years, and arrests can now be made without an officer witnessing the criminal act.
If you’re charged with property crimes:
- Multi-county offenses can be charged together, potentially increasing penalties for you.
- Crimes involving property damage of over $50,000 or organized retail crime now carry mandatory sentencing enhancements.
If you own or manage a commercial establishment:
- You can now seek restraining orders against people with a prior conviction and are protected from penalties for reporting frequent thefts.
- Regional task forces have been extended through 2031 to support efforts aimed at preventing retail theft.
Possible Consequences of Retail Theft and Property Crime Charges
Retail theft charges can result in severe consequences. Depending on the value of the property, prior offenses, and new laws such as AB 2943, charges may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies. To learn which penalties you’re facing and what your legal options may be, it’s wise to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer
California’s new retail theft laws give prosecutors more power. That means the stakes are higher if the DA secures a conviction. Depending on the facts of your case, a proven defense lawyer might:
- File motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or contest aggressive value aggregation
- Challenge unlawful searches and seizures
- Negotiate plea deals or diversion programs, especially for first-time offenders
- Determine eligibility for rehabilitative options, particularly for those under 25
- Argue it’s a case of mistaken identity
- Show there is no proof of intent to steal
Steps to Take if You’re Accused of Retail Theft or Property Crime
If you’ve been charged with a retail or property crime in California, follow these steps:
- Be polite to law enforcement officers.
- Do not agree to answer police questions without legal counsel.
- Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling for a free consultation.
- Avoid discussing the case on social media or with friends. Your statements can be used against you.
- If you’re under 25, ask your attorney if you’re eligible for rehabilitative diversion programs.
- If you receive a retail restraining order, obey it while your attorney reviews it.
Talk to an Experienced Retail Theft Defense Attorney Today
If you’re facing allegations of shoplifting or another theft crime in Los Angeles, you need hard-hitting legal counsel who will work aggressively to address the charges and work to minimize potential penalties. Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling today for a free initial consultation.
