California’s approach to theft-related crimes has undergone significant changes in 2025, with new and amended statutes that enhance prosecutorial jurisdiction, establish permanent theft-related crimes, and increase penalties for specific actions. These updates, introduced through Assembly Bills (AB) and Senate Bills (SB), aim to address organized retail theft, property crimes, and related offenses more effectively.
Here, our experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney at the Griffin Law Office provides an overview of these critical changes and their implications.
Jurisdiction for Theft Crimes (AB 1779)
The signing of AB 1779 amends Penal Code (PC) 786.5 to expand the jurisdictional reach for prosecuting theft crimes.
These changes allow theft offenses to be prosecuted in any jurisdiction where:
- The theft occurred.
- Stolen items were sold or recovered.
- Any act by the defendant related to the theft was performed.
In addition, for out-of-county thefts, prosecutors must hold a joinder hearing. During this hearing, district attorneys from involved jurisdictions must agree in writing to the prosecution plan. This ensures a coordinated approach to handling complex, multi-jurisdictional theft cases.
Permanent Organized Retail Theft (AB 1802)
AB 1802 amends PC 490.4, criminalizing organized retail theft. This statute will become a permanent part of California’s Penal Code. The previous sunset clause, which set an expiration date for the statute, has been removed. This change reflects California’s commitment to combating organized retail theft and ensuring that offenders face consistent legal consequences.
Additional Sentencing for Property Crimes (AB 1960 & SB 1416)
AB 1960 and SB 1416 amend PC 12022.6 and PC 12022.10, introducing sentencing enhancements for property-related crimes involving:
- Property damage, theft, or destruction during a felony.
- Selling or exchanging stolen property.
Enhancements are tied to the aggregate dollar value of the property involved, allowing prosecutors to combine values from multiple incidents.
Restraining Orders for Retail Crimes (AB 3209)
AB 3209 amends PC 490.8, allowing courts to issue restraining orders against individuals convicted of:
- Organized retail theft.
- Assaulting retail employees.
These restraining orders can last up to two years and extend to other retail locations within the same chain or franchise.
Fire as an Aggravating Factor (SB 1242)
SB 1242 updates PC 452 to include setting a fire on a merchant’s premises to facilitate organized retail theft as an aggravating factor. This change increases the potential penalties for offenders and underscores the severity of using fire in committing theft-related crimes.
New Felony for Retail Deprivation (AB 2943)
AB 2943 creates a new felony offense under PC 496.6 and criminalizes the possession of more than $950 worth of stolen retail property with the intent to resell. Additionally, law enforcement officers can now arrest individuals for misdemeanor shoplifting (PC 459.5) even if the crime did not occur in their presence.
Automotive Property Theft (SB 905)
SB 905 creates new provisions under PC 465 and PC 496.5, specifically addressing crimes involving vehicles.
These include:
- Forcible entry into cars with the intent to commit theft.
- Possession of stolen automotive property for resale.
Like other property crimes, aggregate values over $950 apply, enabling prosecutors to combine the value of stolen items across multiple incidents to pursue enhanced charges.
Implications for Californians
The updates to California’s theft-related statutes signal a stronger stance against property and retail crimes, particularly organized retail theft and high-value theft incidents. Navigating these legal changes can be challenging. Our experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney at the Griffin Law Office can help protect your rights with in-depth knowledge of California’s Penal Code and a commitment to providing personalized defense strategies to ensure your case is handled with care and experience. Contact us today to learn more.