What does Penal Code Section 459.5 pertain to?

Penal Code Section 459.5 specifically addresses the offense of shoplifting, defining it as the act of stealing goods valued at $950 or less from a retail establishment. This law was enacted to respond to concerns regarding petty theft and shoplifting, distinguishing it from more serious theft charges.

The significance of this code lies in its stipulation that the property must be taken from a retail store, and the value threshold of $950 serves to categorize the offense as a misdemeanor, which has less severe legal consequences than felony charges. This legislative intent was to streamline the handling of minor theft cases and alleviate some burden on the judicial system.

This understanding is crucial for law enforcement as it guides the proper categorization of the crime when responding to incidents in retail settings, providing a clear framework for both apprehension and prosecution. The focus on retail theft specifically excludes other forms of theft or burglary, emphasizing the context in which the crime occurs.