Recent Blog Posts
New Law Imposes Harsher Penalties for Shoplifting and Drug Possession in California
On November 5, 2024, California voters approved Proposition 36, the “Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act,” introducing significant changes to the state’s criminal justice system, particularly concerning drug and theft-related offenses. The implications of this new law, which went into effect on December 18, 2024, for individuals facing such charges make it more… Read More »
New California Law Raises the Stakes for People Charged With Solicitation of a Minor
In a significant move garnering national attention, California enacted Senate Bill 1414 (SB 1414) on September 26, 2024. This new legislation amends Penal Code sections 290 and 647, introducing stricter penalties for those convicted of soliciting minors. Notably, the offense has been raised from a misdemeanor to a felony in certain circumstances, making it… Read More »
New California Laws Crack Down on Distribution of Sexually Explicit Deepfake Images
Advancements in technology bring about new laws to protect people from being exploited by new tech. This also means new ways people can be arrested, prosecuted, sent to jail, and required to register as sex offenders for certain offenses. On that note, several laws were passed last year designed to deter and punish people… Read More »
Organized Retail Theft: PC 490.4
Organized retail theft has become a growing concern in California, prompting law enforcement and prosecutors to take aggressive action against those accused of this high-profile offense. Under California Penal Code section 490.4, organized retail theft is a distinct crime involving the coordinated theft of goods from retail establishments. If you or someone you know… Read More »
Grand Theft: PC 487
Grand theft is a serious criminal offense in California, and a conviction can have consequences that follow you for years or change your life forever. If you have been charged with grand theft, it’s crucial to understand the offense, the penalties you face if convicted, and the defenses that could be available to you…. Read More »
Shoplifting: PC 459.95
Shoplifting is one of the most common theft-related offenses in California, and it carries serious legal consequences. Whether the incident involves the theft of a small item or something more substantial, being charged with shoplifting can have a significant impact on a person’s life. If you’ve been accused of shoplifting in San Bernardino County,… Read More »
Military Diversion for Veterans in San Bernardino County
Veterans who find themselves entangled in the criminal justice system often face unique challenges, many of which stem from their service-related experiences. Recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans and the difficulties they might encounter upon returning to civilian life, California law offers a specialized program known as Military Diversion. This program, available to qualifying… Read More »
Mental Health Diversion in San Bernardino County
When facing criminal charges, individuals with mental health issues may be eligible for a specialized form of legal relief known as mental health diversion. This program offers an alternative to traditional prosecution, focusing on treatment and rehabilitation rather than punishment. As a long-time Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney, John D. Lueck has extensive experience… Read More »
Auto Theft
Auto theft is a serious crime in California, and understanding how this offense is defined and applied is crucial to defending yourself if you find yourself facing charges. In California, auto theft is primarily governed by Vehicle Code 10851, while more severe cases may fall under Penal Code 487 for grand theft auto. Here,… Read More »
Burglary: PC 459
In California criminal law, burglary stands as a serious offense with severe consequences if convicted. Defined under California Penal Code sections 458-464, burglary encompasses a range of actions and scenarios. See below for an explanation of the crime of burglary in California, including the elements that must be proven to be convicted, the penalties… Read More »