It’s surprising how much identity theft in California has increased in the past decades, resulting in a change in the Penal Code Sections. Now, anyone accused or charged with identity theft might end up with several more years added to their sentence. Penal Code Section 530.5 PC and 530.5 PC(a) declare that this crime varies in degrees of seriousness and penalties. Identity theft can be sentenced as either a felony or misdemeanor.
For this reason, if you’ve been accused of identity theft, drop what you’re doing, and contact the law team at DRE Law, with locations in Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, and Orange County. These attorneys are qualified and willing to take on any identity theft crimes in California.
In 1998, the first law against identity theft was established. Initially, the crime was charged as a misdemeanor, but one year later, identity theft was also charged as a felony based on how the crime was committed.
Penal Code Section (b) states that for an individual who steals personal information or the identity of another to commit a crime, the person whose identity was stolen will not face charges. If a prosecutor is shown or accused of intention to defraud by charging an individual who successfully defends themselves, the prosecutor may be charged.
Additionally, if you are an immigrant and found guilty of identity theft, you may face deportation or be marked “inadmissible” by the government.
To avoid someone accessing your personal documents, do not offer personal information to sources or people who are not trustworthy, destroy old credit cards, create difficult passwords, frequently check your online accounts or credit reports, lock your mailbox, and beware of scams.
If you or a person you know has been arrested or taken into custody for an identity theft crime, contact the law firm of Darren Richie, Esq. of DRE Law. The attorneys at DRE in Southern California mirror Darren Richie’s iron will and tenacity. You need someone bold and prepared to fight for their clients against any sentence. You deserve justice. Contact DRE Law today.