According to the LA Times, the “Barefoot Bandit” has been caught and arrested in the Bahamas. Colton Harris-Moore, 19, has allegedly been on a crime spree for two years across four states and the Bahamian islands. His evasions and thefts had gained him a cult following. Harris-Moore has had frequent brushes with the law including a 2008 detention. He escaped from a halfway-house and it is is alleged that he began entering vacation homes to steal food, electronics, and credit cards. Nicknamed after committing his crimes while barefoot, the alleged Barefoot Bandit is accused of stealing a number of planes without formal flying lessons. The FBI offered a $10,000 reward for his capture.

Harris-Moore will most likely face federal and state theft charges. In California, a theft is the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent of keeping it permanently. If the value of the item stolen is worth four hundred dollars ($400) or more, the theft is considered to be a “grand theft.” See California Penal Code Section 487. The punishment for being convicted of a grant theft can be severe. Grand theft is considered to be a “wobbler.” This means the prosecution has discretion to charge a defendant with a felony or a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction of grand theft is punishable by imprisonment for up to one year in county jail. A felony conviction of grand theft is punishable by imprisonment for up to three years in state prison.

If your or a loved one is facing a theft crime charge, it is important that you speak with an attorney who is experienced in handling theft crimes. At Wallin & Klarich, our theft crime attorneys have over 30 years of experience. We will aggressively fight to get you the best possible result in your case. Call us today at (888) 280-6839 or contact us through our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.