Yesterday, Target’s loss prevention on Jamboree spotted a man removing tags from a backpack that he used to stash clothing and property in, according to the Irvine Police Department.
He then tried the classic “walk past the registers like nothing happened” move.
When confronted, he shoved an employee and made a run for it, turning the theft into a robbery.
IPD police officers quickly found him in the shopping center, safely detained him, and returned all the stolen property to the store.
It turns out this isn’t his first shoplifting rodeo. He’s on formal probation for prior thefts, and now he’s got a new arrest to add to his collection.
Based on California law and the circumstances described, the suspect in the Target incident is likely facing robbery charges, probation violation, and possibly enhanced penalties due to prior theft convictions. Here’s a plain-text breakdown of what that means:
1. Robbery – Penal Code § 211
When the suspect shoved an employee while fleeing, the crime escalated from shoplifting to robbery, which is a violent felony.
- Penalty:
- 2 to 5 years in state prison
- Strike offense under California’s Three Strikes Law
- Possible parole or probation restrictions after release
2. Shoplifting – Penal Code § 459.5
Shoplifting alone (entering a store during business hours with intent to steal items worth less than $950) is typically a misdemeanor.
- Penalty:
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Summary probation for 1–2 years
However, because the suspect used force during the theft, it no longer qualifies as simple shoplifting.
3. Probation Violation
The suspect is already on formal probation for prior thefts. Committing a new crime while on probation can trigger a revocation.
- Penalty:
- Additional jail or prison time
- Loss of probation privileges
- Judge may impose the original suspended sentence from the prior conviction
4. Repeat Offender Enhancements
If the suspect has multiple prior theft convictions, prosecutors may file under Petty Theft with a Prior (Penal Code § 666) or pursue felony charges even for minor thefts.
- Penalty:
- Felony theft: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail
- Strike enhancements if prior convictions were serious or violent
Summary
The suspect could face:
- Felony robbery charges (2–5 years in prison)
- Probation revocation
- Repeat offender enhancements
- Loss of eligibility for diversion or alternative sentencing
The post Repeat offender arrested again for trying to steal from a Target in Irvine first appeared on New Santa Ana.