Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

The crime of not knowing how to keep your mouth shut.

Depending upon the facts, the theft could be one of several different crimes.

As Mr. Stone has noted, admitting the theft to the police was a very bad move. Your chances of successfully defending the case are much weaker as a result. Get a lawyer ASAP, and stop talking to anyone else about the theft.

Good luck.

I'm not sure why you're getting snarky responses.

You could be looking at a number of different theft charges.

First, there's petty theft - anything under $950 in value. Over $950 and it's grand theft. If it was theft by an employee from an employer, then they can add up a series of small thefts and if it totals over the $950, they can charge grand theft instead of just a bunch of petty thefts.

Petty theft is a misdemeanor - max of 6 months in custody and/or a thousand dollar fine. Grand theft is a "wobbler" and can be a felony (max of 3 years) or a misdemeanor (max of 1 year).

There are different theories of theft - embezzlement, etc., but the nature of the charge would be theft.

There are also sentencing enhancements that deal with "excessive taking" if the loss is substantial.

The police are involved, so it's time for you to get a lawyer. If you can afford to hire one, do so ASAP so they can be ready for whatever is happening with the investigation. If you cannot afford an attorney, don't discuss this with anyone, but be ready. You may be arrested or be sent a letter indicating charges have been filed. Go to court on schedule and request the services of a public defender.