A Los Angeles woman faces theft charges following a two-month-long investigation. The woman targeted high-end clothing stores in Ventura and Orange Counties. Simi Valley Police say the woman had a particular fondness for the local Macy’s store there.

According to police, they served a search warrant in Los Angeles last month on the woman’s residence. They discovered evidence during the search that connected the woman to a string of incidents. As a result, she now faces charges of grand Theft, conspiracy and organized retail theft. The Organized Retail Fraud charge is new, having been introduced in January. Prosecutors accuse her of committing organized retail fraud at least twice in a 12-month period. The charge is a felony. She also faces two felony grand theft charges.

Police believe that the woman operated as part of a larger, organized crime ring. They believe she worked with as many as a half-dozen other suspects. The woman posted a bail of $25,000 and will return to court on March 18 for arraignment.

Simi Valley theft lawyer

When you face charges for stealing, hire an experienced theft lawyer like Robert Helfend. Mr. Helfend has nearly 35 years of experience in criminal defense. In his more than three decades of practice, he has defended thousands of Californians.

Retail fraud can lead to grand theft charges, depending upon the value of the stolen merchandise. Repeated or organized retail fraud can now lead to additional felony charges.

In California, it’s important to avoid felony convictions. The state’s Three Strikes Law can increase penalties on subsequent convictions. A third conviction for a violent felony can put you in prison for life.

Your best strategy is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. Mr. Helfend does not judge his clients based on the charges against them. He also manages every case personally, so you will work directly with him on your case.

Don’t settle for an inexperienced attorney, and don’t assume that you have no options following an arrest. Contact Robert Helfend or call toll-free at (800) 834-6434, (805) 273-5611, (310) 456-3317 or (818) 591-2809 for an immediate consultation on your Ventura theft case.

Photo Credit: smcgee, via Flickr.com

The post Theft Charge for Los Angeles Suspect appeared first on Ventura CA Criminal Defense Attorney.