Free consultationCriminal defense in Southern California, available 24/7(888) 315-3326Español

Robbery and Theft Defense Attorney in Pomona

Table of Contents

Robbery and Theft Defense Attorney in Pomona, California

Facing robbery or theft charges in Pomona, California can be overwhelming and frightening. These offenses carry severe consequences including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, permanent criminal records, and immigration consequences that can alter the course of your entire life. Whether you’ve been charged with petty theft, grand theft, burglary, robbery, shoplifting, or any other theft-related crime, the criminal justice system treats these allegations seriously, and prosecutors in Los Angeles County pursue convictions aggressively.

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we understand that theft and robbery charges often arise from misunderstandings, false accusations, mistaken identity, or circumstances that don’t reflect the full story. We also recognize that many people facing these charges have never been in trouble before and are terrified about what the future holds. Our experienced criminal defense team has successfully defended hundreds of clients against theft and robbery charges throughout Los Angeles County, including at the Pomona Courthouse Superior Court.

We know the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures, and we understand the defense strategies that work best to protect your rights, preserve your freedom, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. From petty theft misdemeanors to serious robbery felonies, we provide the aggressive, knowledgeable representation you need during this critical time.

Free Confidential Consultation: (888) 315-3326 | Available 24/7 | Hablamos Español

Understanding Theft and Robbery Laws in California

California law distinguishes between various types of theft and robbery offenses, each carrying different penalties and legal elements that prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

What is Theft Under California Law?

Theft, defined under California Penal Code Section 484, occurs when someone takes property belonging to another person with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. The key elements prosecutors must establish include:

  • You took possession of property owned by someone else
  • You took the property without the owner’s consent
  • When you took the property, you intended to deprive the owner of it permanently (or for a period long enough to deprive them of its value)
  • You moved the property and kept it for any period of time

According to the California Courts[1], theft offenses are among the most commonly prosecuted crimes in the state, with thousands of cases filed annually in Los Angeles County alone.

Types of Theft Offenses

  • Petty Theft (Penal Code Section 488): Taking property valued at $950 or less constitutes petty theft, typically charged as a misdemeanor. This includes shoplifting, stealing personal property, and similar offenses involving relatively low-value items.
  • Grand Theft (Penal Code Section 487): Taking property valued at more than $950 qualifies as grand theft, a “wobbler” offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances and your criminal history. Certain types of property—including firearms, automobiles, and property taken directly from another person—qualify as grand theft regardless of value.
  • Petty Theft with Prior Convictions (Penal Code Section 666): If you have prior theft-related convictions, a new petty theft can be charged as a felony under this statute, significantly increasing potential penalties.
  • Burglary (Penal Code Sections 459-460): Entering any building, structure, or locked vehicle with the intent to commit theft or any felony constitutes burglary. First-degree burglary (residential burglary) and second-degree burglary (commercial burglary) carry different penalty structures.
  • Shoplifting (Penal Code Section 459.5): Since Proposition 47’s passage in 2014, shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial establishment during business hours with intent to steal property valued at $950 or less. This is charged as a misdemeanor with less severe penalties than traditional burglary.
  • Receiving Stolen Property (Penal Code Section 496): Knowingly buying, receiving, concealing, or withholding property that has been stolen is a separate offense, charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the property’s value.
  • Identity Theft (Penal Code Section 530.5): Using another person’s identifying information without permission for any unlawful purpose, including obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.
  • Vehicle Theft (Penal Code Section 487(d)(1)): Taking a vehicle belonging to another person without consent, commonly known as auto theft or grand theft auto.
  • Embezzlement (Penal Code Section 503): Fraudulently appropriating property entrusted to you by another person.

What is Robbery Under California Law?

Robbery, defined under California Penal Code Section 211, is the taking of personal property from another person’s possession or immediate presence, against their will, through force or fear. Robbery is always a felony in California and is considered a violent crime with serious consequences.

The prosecution must prove:

  • You took property that wasn’t yours
  • The property was in another person’s possession or immediate presence
  • You took the property against that person’s will
  • You used force or fear to take the property or prevent resistance
  • When you used force or fear, you intended to deprive the owner of the property permanently

First-Degree Robbery: Occurs when the victim is a driver or passenger of a bus, taxi, cable car, streetcar, or other transportation for hire; when the robbery occurs in an inhabited dwelling; or when the robbery occurs at an ATM or immediately after the victim has used an ATM. First-degree robbery carries harsher penalties.

Second-Degree Robbery: All other robbery scenarios that don’t meet first-degree criteria, such as robberies occurring in commercial businesses, on the street, or in other public places.

According to data from the California Department of Justice[2], robbery rates fluctuate throughout the state, with urban areas like Pomona experiencing varying levels of these offenses based on economic conditions and law enforcement activity.

Penalties for Theft and Robbery Convictions in Pomona

The consequences of theft and robbery convictions vary significantly based on the specific charges, the value of property involved, your criminal history, and whether charges are prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies.

Petty Theft Penalties

Petty theft is typically charged as a misdemeanor with penalties including:

  • Up to six months in county jail
  • Fines of up to $1,000
  • Informal probation
  • Restitution to victims for the value of stolen property
  • Community service requirements

Grand Theft Penalties

When charged as a misdemeanor:

  • Up to one year in county jail
  • Fines of up to $1,000
  • Probation with conditions
  • Restitution payments

When charged as a felony:

  • 16 months, two years, or three years in county jail or state prison
  • Fines of up to $10,000
  • Formal probation with strict conditions
  • Restitution to victims
  • Potential strike on your record under California’s Three Strikes Law

Burglary Penalties

  • First-Degree Residential Burglary: A serious felony carrying:
    • Two, four, or six years in California state prison
    • Fines of up to $10,000
    • A strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
    • Formal probation in some cases
  • Second-Degree Commercial Burglary: A wobbler offense with penalties including:
    • Misdemeanor: Up to one year in county jail
    • Felony: 16 months, two years, or three years in jail or prison
    • Fines and restitution

Robbery Penalties

  • Second-Degree Robbery: Carries penalties of:
    • Two, three, or five years in California state prison
    • Fines of up to $10,000
    • A strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
    • Formal probation rarely granted
  • First-Degree Robbery: More severe penalties including:
    • Three, four, or six years in California state prison
    • Additional enhancements for great bodily injury, weapon use, or gang involvement
    • A strike under the Three Strikes Law
    • Potential consecutive sentences if multiple victims were robbed

Enhanced Penalties and Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances trigger enhanced penalties:

  • Use of a Weapon: Using a firearm during robbery adds 10 years to your sentence under California’s “10-20-Life” law. Personal use adds 3-4 years for other dangerous weapons.
  • Great Bodily Injury: Causing serious injury to victims adds 3-6 years under Penal Code Section 12022.7.
  • Multiple Victims: Robberies involving multiple victims can result in consecutive sentences for each victim.
  • Gang Enhancement: Commission of theft or robbery for the benefit of a criminal street gang adds 2-10 years under Penal Code Section 186.22.
  • Prior Convictions: Previous theft, robbery, or other felony convictions significantly increase penalties and can trigger Three Strikes sentencing.

According to statistics from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department[3], property crimes including theft and robbery remain significant concerns throughout Los Angeles County, including in Pomona and surrounding communities.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond immediate criminal penalties, theft and robbery convictions create serious collateral consequences:

  • Employment Impact: Criminal records appear on background checks conducted by most employers. Theft convictions particularly affect positions involving cash handling, financial responsibility, or positions of trust. Many employers automatically disqualify applicants with theft or robbery convictions.
  • Professional Licensing: State licensing boards for numerous professions—including healthcare workers, attorneys, accountants, real estate agents, contractors, and financial advisors—can deny, suspend, or revoke licenses based on theft-related convictions. The California Department of Consumer Affairs[4] oversees dozens of licensing boards that consider criminal convictions in licensing decisions.
  • Immigration Consequences: For non-citizens, theft and robbery convictions can result in deportation, inadmissibility, and denial of naturalization. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services[5] considers theft offenses, particularly those classified as crimes involving moral turpitude or aggravated felonies, as grounds for removal from the United States.
  • Housing Difficulties: Landlords frequently deny rental applications based on theft or robbery convictions, making it difficult to secure housing.
  • Educational Opportunities: Colleges and universities may deny admission or financial aid based on criminal records.
  • Firearm Rights: Felony convictions result in lifetime prohibition from owning or possessing firearms under both California and federal law.

The Arrest and Prosecution Process in Pomona

Understanding what happens after a theft or robbery arrest in Pomona helps you make informed decisions and protect your rights.

Investigation and Arrest

Theft and robbery investigations in Pomona are conducted by the Pomona Police Department[6] and, depending on the location and circumstances, may involve other Los Angeles County law enforcement agencies.

  • Evidence Collection: Officers gather:
    • Surveillance footage from businesses, homes, or public areas
    • Witness statements and victim accounts
    • Physical evidence including stolen property, weapons, or tools used
    • Fingerprints and DNA evidence
    • Cell phone records and location data
    • Financial records or receipts
  • Arrest: You may be arrested at the scene of the alleged crime, identified later through investigation, or arrested following the issuance of an arrest warrant. Pomona police follow specific protocols for arrests involving theft and robbery allegations.

Booking and Detention

After arrest, you’ll be transported to the Pomona Police Department for booking, which includes:

  • Recording personal information
  • Taking fingerprints and photographs
  • Conducting background checks
  • Confiscating personal belongings
  • Possible interrogation (you should invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney)

Bail amounts vary based on:

  • The specific charges (robbery carries higher bail than petty theft)
  • The value of property involved
  • Your criminal history
  • Whether weapons were involved
  • Flight risk considerations

Arraignment

Your first court appearance at the Pomona Courthouse Superior Court, located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, typically occurs within 48 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays). According to the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles[7], arraignment proceedings follow standardized procedures where:

  • Formal charges are read
  • You enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
  • Bail is reviewed and set
  • Protective orders may be issued if applicable
  • Future court dates are scheduled

Pre-Trial Proceedings

Following arraignment, your case progresses through several stages:

  • Discovery: Your attorney receives evidence the prosecution intends to use, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence.
  • Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to:
    • Suppress illegally obtained evidence
    • Dismiss charges based on insufficient evidence
    • Challenge unconstitutional searches or seizures
    • Request reduction of charges
    • Seek dismissal based on procedural violations
  • Plea Negotiations: Many cases resolve through negotiated plea agreements. We negotiate with Los Angeles County prosecutors to:
    • Reduce felony charges to misdemeanors
    • Reduce theft amounts to lower penalties
    • Obtain diversion or alternative sentencing
    • Minimize immigration consequences
    • Protect your record and future opportunities
  • Trial: If we cannot reach a favorable resolution, we prepare for trial where we present your defense before a judge or jury, challenge prosecution evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence supporting your innocence.

Pomona’s Theft and Robbery Landscape

Pomona, with approximately 151,000 residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau[8], is Los Angeles County’s third-largest city. Its location along major transportation corridors including Interstate 10, Interstate 210, and State Route 60 makes it a commercial hub with numerous retail establishments, making it a location where theft-related crimes occur with some frequency.

Economic and Demographic Context

Pomona’s economic challenges contribute to property crime rates. With approximately 20% of residents living below the poverty line according to census data—significantly higher than California’s state average—economic pressures can contribute to theft-related offenses.

The city’s diverse population, approximately 71% Latino according to the U.S. Census Bureau[8], includes significant immigrant communities where language barriers, cultural factors, and fear of law enforcement can complicate theft and robbery cases.

Common Locations for Theft and Robbery Charges

Theft and robbery arrests in Pomona commonly occur at:

  • Retail Establishments: Pomona’s numerous shopping centers, including the Pomona Valley Plaza, various big-box retailers along Indian Hill Boulevard, and smaller retail stores throughout the city are frequent locations for shoplifting arrests.
  • Public Transportation Areas: The Pomona Metrolink station and surrounding areas see various theft-related incidents.
  • Residential Areas: Home burglaries occur throughout Pomona’s residential neighborhoods, with some areas experiencing higher rates than others.
  • Commercial Districts: Business burglaries targeting restaurants, offices, and other commercial establishments.
  • Street Robberies: Personal robberies occurring on streets, parking lots, and public areas throughout the city.

Local Law Enforcement Approach

The Pomona Police Department employs various strategies to address theft and robbery:

  • Regular patrols in high-theft areas
  • Coordination with retail establishments on loss prevention
  • Investigation of organized retail crime rings
  • Community partnerships to prevent property crimes
  • Specialized units investigating burglary patterns

Common Defenses to Theft and Robbery Charges

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we’ve successfully defended countless clients against theft and robbery charges using strategies tailored to each unique situation. Here are the most effective defenses:

Lack of Intent

Theft and robbery charges require proof that you intended to permanently deprive the owner of property. We can demonstrate:

  • You intended to borrow the property and return it
  • You believed you had permission to take the property
  • You took the property by mistake or accident
  • You believed the property was yours or abandoned

Without proof of intent to permanently deprive, theft charges cannot stand.

Claim of Right

California law provides a defense when you took property believing in good faith that you had a right to it. This applies when:

  • You genuinely believed the property was yours
  • You had a reasonable basis for this belief
  • You openly took the property (not secretly)

This defense doesn’t apply if you intended to deprive the owner permanently even if you believed you had some claim to the property.

Consent

If you had permission from the owner to take the property, no theft occurred. We present evidence showing:

  • The owner gave you explicit or implied permission
  • You reasonably believed you had consent based on prior interactions
  • The owner’s conduct indicated permission

False Accusations

Unfortunately, false theft and robbery accusations occur frequently, motivated by:

  • Personal conflicts or relationship disputes
  • Attempts to collect insurance money
  • Mistaken belief about who took property
  • Revenge or retaliation
  • Attempts to avoid civil liability

We investigate the accuser’s motivations, credibility issues, inconsistencies in their story, and evidence contradicting their allegations.

Mistaken Identity

Mistaken identity is common in theft and robbery cases, especially when:

  • Surveillance footage is grainy or unclear
  • Witnesses saw the perpetrator briefly or from a distance
  • The crime occurred in low-light conditions
  • Multiple people match general descriptions
  • Identification procedures were suggestive or flawed

We challenge identification evidence through:

  • Expert testimony about reliability of eyewitness identification
  • Alibi evidence showing you were elsewhere when the crime occurred
  • Demonstrating suggestive identification procedures
  • Highlighting inconsistencies in witness descriptions
  • Presenting evidence of the actual perpetrator

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution must prove every element of theft or robbery beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge insufficient evidence by:

  • Demonstrating lack of proof you took the property
  • Showing no evidence connecting you to the crime scene
  • Highlighting absence of witnesses or physical evidence
  • Exposing gaps in the prosecution’s timeline
  • Demonstrating reasonable doubt about your guilt

No Force or Fear (Robbery Defense)

Robbery charges require proof that you used force or fear to take property. We can demonstrate:

  • No force was used or threatened
  • The alleged victim wasn’t present when property was taken
  • Any force used wasn’t for the purpose of taking property
  • The taking constitutes theft, not robbery

Successfully challenging the force or fear element can reduce robbery charges to theft charges with significantly lower penalties.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

We scrutinize every aspect of your arrest and investigation for constitutional violations:

  • Illegal Search and Seizure: Evidence obtained through illegal searches cannot be used against you. We examine whether:
    • Police had probable cause for the search
    • A valid search warrant existed if required
    • The search exceeded the scope of any warrant
    • Your consent to search was voluntary
  • Miranda Violations: Statements made during custodial interrogation without proper Miranda warnings cannot be used as evidence.
  • Right to Counsel Violations: Any interrogation after you invoked your right to an attorney violated your constitutional rights.
  • Unlawful Arrest: If police lacked probable cause for your arrest, evidence obtained following the illegal arrest may be suppressed.

If constitutional violations occurred, we file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges entirely.

Intoxication

While intoxication isn’t a complete defense to theft or robbery, it can negate the specific intent required for these crimes. If you were so intoxicated that you couldn’t form the intent to permanently deprive someone of property, this can be a defense to theft charges (though it may not apply to robbery, which is a general intent crime).

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers induce someone to commit a crime they otherwise wouldn’t have committed. This defense applies when:

  • The crime idea originated with law enforcement
  • Officers used persuasion, fraud, or harassment to induce the crime
  • You weren’t predisposed to commit the offense

Undercover operations targeting theft rings or organized retail crime sometimes cross the line into entrapment.

Diversion Programs and Alternative Sentencing

California offers several programs allowing eligible defendants to avoid conviction or reduce long-term consequences of theft-related charges.

Pretrial Diversion

Some counties offer pretrial diversion programs for first-time offenders charged with theft offenses. These programs allow you to:

  • Avoid pleading guilty
  • Complete counseling, community service, or educational programs
  • Pay restitution to victims
  • Have charges dismissed upon successful completion

Eligibility depends on factors including:

  • No prior criminal history or limited prior offenses
  • The value of property involved
  • Whether violence occurred
  • Prosecutor discretion

Proposition 47 Relief

Proposition 47, passed by California voters in 2014, reclassified certain theft and drug offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. According to the California Courts[1], thousands of individuals have benefited from Proposition 47’s reforms.

Eligible Offenses: Includes shoplifting, petty theft, receiving stolen property, check fraud, and similar offenses where property value doesn’t exceed $950.

Benefits: Reduction of charges from felonies to misdemeanors, resulting in:

  • Shorter potential jail sentences
  • Avoiding state prison
  • Reduced collateral consequences
  • Eligibility for record expungement sooner

Retroactive Relief: People previously convicted of eligible felonies can petition to have convictions redesignated as misdemeanors.

Deferred Entry of Judgment

This program allows you to plead guilty while the court delays entering judgment. If you successfully complete probation requirements including counseling, restitution, and community service, the plea is withdrawn and charges dismissed.

Community Service and Restitution

Courts often accept community service hours and full restitution to victims as alternatives to jail time, particularly for first-time offenders or cases involving lower-value property.

Special Circumstances in Theft and Robbery Cases

Organized Retail Crime

Pomona’s retail establishments increasingly face organized retail crime—professional theft operations involving multiple people stealing merchandise for resale. These cases are prosecuted aggressively and may involve:

  • Federal charges in addition to state charges
  • Enhanced penalties for organized criminal activity
  • RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) charges
  • Conspiracy charges

Defense strategies in organized retail crime cases differ significantly from individual shoplifting defenses.

Employee Theft

Theft by employees, including embezzlement, occupies a special category. These cases often involve:

  • Civil litigation in addition to criminal charges
  • Professional licensing consequences
  • Restitution agreements as part of plea negotiations
  • Possibility of resolving cases civilly without criminal prosecution

Theft of Services

Taking services without payment—including dining and dashing, obtaining lodging without paying, or similar scenarios—constitutes theft under California law and is prosecuted similarly to theft of tangible property.

Vehicle Theft and Joyriding

Vehicle theft (Penal Code 487(d)) differs from joyriding (Penal Code 10851). Joyriding—taking a vehicle without intent to permanently deprive the owner—carries less severe penalties than grand theft auto and may be a viable defense strategy.

Immigration Consequences of Theft and Robbery Convictions

For non-citizens facing theft or robbery charges in Pomona, immigration consequences can be devastating and permanent.

Deportable Offenses

Under federal immigration law, certain theft and robbery convictions make you deportable:

Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude: Most theft offenses are classified as crimes involving moral turpitude. A single conviction within five years of admission to the United States, or multiple convictions at any time, can trigger deportation proceedings.

Aggravated Felonies: Theft offenses with a sentence of one year or more (even if suspended) or involving property worth $10,000 or more qualify as aggravated felonies under immigration law, resulting in:

  • Mandatory deportation
  • Permanent inadmissibility to the United States
  • Ineligibility for most forms of relief from removal

Robbery: Always considered an aggravated felony under immigration law regardless of sentence or property value, making robbery convictions particularly devastating for non-citizens.

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services[5], theft and robbery convictions are among the most common grounds for deportation of otherwise lawful residents.

Protecting Your Immigration Status

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we carefully analyze immigration implications of every decision in your criminal case. We work to:

  • Negotiate dispositions that avoid deportable offenses
  • Reduce charges to immigration-safe alternatives
  • Structure sentences to avoid aggravated felony classification
  • Coordinate with immigration attorneys when necessary
  • Fight charges more aggressively at trial when plea deals carry immigration consequences

Building Your Defense Strategy

Every theft and robbery case requires a customized defense strategy based on specific facts, evidence, and your personal circumstances.

Comprehensive Investigation

We begin with thorough investigation including:

  • Evidence Review: Examining police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, forensic reports, and all prosecution evidence for weaknesses, inconsistencies, or constitutional violations.
  • Scene Investigation: Visiting the alleged crime scene to assess witness sightlines, surveillance camera locations, lighting conditions, and other factors affecting the prosecution’s case.
  • Witness Interviews: Speaking with witnesses, employees, security personnel, and anyone with relevant information.
  • Alibi Development: Gathering evidence showing you were elsewhere when the crime occurred, including:
    • Witness testimony
    • Cell phone location data
    • Credit card receipts or ATM transactions
    • Surveillance footage from other locations
    • Employment records or time cards
    • Social media posts with timestamps
  • Expert Consultation: When appropriate, consulting with experts including:
    • Forensic specialists who can challenge fingerprint, DNA, or other physical evidence
    • Video forensics experts who can enhance or analyze surveillance footage
    • Identification experts who can testify about eyewitness reliability
    • Retail loss prevention experts

Strategic Decision-Making

We analyze your options and develop strategy addressing:

  • Trial vs. Negotiation: Determining whether taking your case to trial or negotiating a plea agreement best serves your interests.
  • Charge Reduction: Working to reduce charges to lesser offenses with reduced penalties:
    • Felonies to misdemeanors
    • Grand theft to petty theft
    • Robbery to theft
    • Burglary to trespassing
  • Alternative Programs: Pursuing diversion, deferred entry of judgment, or other alternatives to conviction when available.
  • Immigration Protection: For non-citizens, ensuring any resolution minimizes or eliminates immigration consequences.
  • Sentencing Advocacy: If conviction is likely, presenting mitigation evidence to minimize penalties including:
    • Character references and letters of support
    • Evidence of rehabilitation efforts
    • Demonstration of employment, family support, and community ties
    • Substance abuse treatment or mental health counseling
    • Plans for restitution and making victims whole

What to Do If You’re Arrested for Theft or Robbery

If you’ve been arrested for theft or robbery in Pomona, take these critical steps immediately:

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

Do not:

  • Explain what happened to police officers
  • Try to convince officers of your innocence
  • Provide alibis or explanations
  • Answer questions without an attorney present

Everything you say will be recorded and used against you. Even seemingly innocent statements can be twisted to support prosecution theories.

Request an Attorney Immediately

Clearly state: “I want an attorney and I will not answer any questions without one present.” Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista as soon as possible—the sooner we begin working on your case, the more options we have.

Do Not Consent to Searches

Unless officers have a warrant, clearly state that you do not consent to any search of your person, vehicle, home, or property. Do not physically resist, but make your lack of consent clear.

Document Everything

As soon as possible, write down:

  • Everything you remember about the arrest
  • Names and badge numbers of officers
  • Witnesses who may have seen what occurred
  • Your exact location and activities at the time of the alleged crime
  • Any alibi information

Preserve Evidence

Save anything that might support your defense:

  • Receipts showing you purchased items
  • Text messages or communications
  • Surveillance footage from your location
  • Credit card or bank statements
  • Employment records or time cards
  • Social media posts with location tags

Do Not Contact Victims or Witnesses

Any contact with alleged victims, witnesses, or co-defendants can be used against you and may result in additional charges for intimidation or tampering.

Avoid Discussing Your Case

Do not:

  • Post about your arrest on social media
  • Discuss case details with anyone except your attorney
  • Talk about the case on recorded jail phone calls
  • Accept advice from cellmates or non-attorneys

Why Choose Tu Defensor Criminalista

When facing theft or robbery charges that threaten your freedom and future, choosing the right attorney makes all the difference.

  • Extensive Experience: We’ve successfully defended hundreds of theft and robbery cases throughout Los Angeles County, including numerous cases at the Pomona Courthouse. We understand the nuances of these cases and the strategies that produce results.
  • Local Knowledge: Our familiarity with Pomona judges, prosecutors, and court procedures gives us strategic advantages. We know which arguments resonate with specific judges, which prosecutors are reasonable, and what strategies work best in the Pomona court system.
  • Proven Results: Our track record includes dismissals, acquittals, reduced charges, and favorable plea agreements for countless clients facing theft and robbery charges. We’ve helped clients avoid prison time, protect their immigration status, preserve their professional licenses, and move forward with their lives.
  • Personalized Attention: We treat every client as an individual with unique circumstances. You’ll work directly with experienced attorneys who take time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the process.
  • Aggressive Defense: We investigate thoroughly, challenge questionable evidence, expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and hold the state to its burden of proof. We’re not afraid to take cases to trial when that’s in your best interest.
  • Comprehensive Service: From arrest through trial, sentencing, appeals, and record expungement, we provide complete legal representation at every stage.
  • Bilingual Services: We provide complete legal services in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication regardless of your preferred language.
  • Immigration Expertise: We understand immigration consequences and work to protect non-citizens from deportation and inadmissibility.
  • Transparent Pricing: We offer clear fee structures and flexible payment plans, ensuring you understand costs upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions – Robbery and Theft

What’s the difference between theft and robbery?

Theft involves taking property without the owner’s consent with intent to permanently deprive them of it. Robbery requires the additional elements of taking property from someone’s person or immediate presence using force or fear. Robbery is always a felony with much harsher penalties than theft.

Can shoplifting charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes. First-time shoplifters often qualify for diversion programs resulting in dismissal. Even without diversion, we can negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or present defenses resulting in dismissal or acquittal.

What if I intended to pay for merchandise but forgot?

Lack of intent to steal is a complete defense. If you can demonstrate you genuinely intended to pay—perhaps you were distracted, had merchandise in your cart intending to pay, or had a reasonable explanation for the situation—charges may be dismissed.

Will I go to prison for robbery?

Not necessarily. While robbery is a serious felony, first-time offenders with strong mitigation may receive probation instead of prison. Factors including use of weapons, injuries to victims, your criminal history, and quality of legal representation affect sentencing outcomes.

Can theft convictions be expunged?

If you successfully complete probation, you may be eligible for expungement under Penal Code Section 1203.4. Expungement releases you from most penalties of conviction, though some consequences remain. We handle the entire expungement process for eligible clients.

What if I returned the property?

Returning property demonstrates remorse and can be powerful mitigation, but it doesn’t automatically eliminate criminal liability. However, it significantly strengthens negotiations with prosecutors and can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing.

How do I get my property back after arrest?

If you were arrested with property that wasn’t stolen, you can petition the court for return. If property was stolen but you weren’t the thief, we can work with prosecutors to demonstrate ownership and secure return of your property.

What if I was with someone who committed theft, but I didn’t steal anything?

You can still face charges as an accomplice if prosecutors believe you aided, encouraged, or facilitated the theft. However, mere presence isn’t enough for conviction—we can defend you by demonstrating you had no knowledge of the theft and didn’t assist in any way.

Can I be convicted of robbery if I didn’t use a weapon?

Yes. Robbery doesn’t require weapons—any force or fear used to take property qualifies. This includes threats, physical struggles, or putting someone in fear of immediate harm.

What happens if I can’t afford an attorney?

You have the right to court-appointed counsel if you cannot afford a private attorney. However, private attorneys like Tu Defensor Criminalista often provide more personalized attention, investigation resources, and strategic advantages. Contact us to discuss payment plans and options.

Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista for Pomona Robbery and Theft Defense

Service areasProudly Serving Pomona and Los Angeles County
LanguagesEnglish & Spanish (Hablamos Español)
Get a Free Consultation

Remember:

  • Request DMV hearing within 10 days of arrest
  • Don’t talk to police without attorney
  • Don’t plead guilty without exploring defenses
  • Free consultation – call now

Sources

  1. California Courts (courts.ca.gov)
  2. California Department of Justice (oag.ca.gov)
  3. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (lasd.org)
  4. California Department of Consumer Affairs (dca.ca.gov)
  5. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (uscis.gov)
  6. Pomona Police Department (pomonaca.gov)
  7. Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles (lacourt.org)
  8. U.S. Census Bureau (census.gov)
  9. City of Pomona Police Department (pomonaca.gov)
  10. California Legislative Information (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)

Client Trust & Avvo Recognition

Attorney Armando Josué Cespedes is rated 5.0 on Avvo, with 34 five-star reviews from clients praising his dedication, professionalism, and results. Many note how his trial skills and attention to detail led to reduced charges or outright dismissals.

I was arrested for a DUI just recently, since Spanish is my first language, it was important to find a great attorney who was bilingual. Getting your first DUI can...
Christian
Armando cespedes went above and beyond for my case. I was very close to getting my license revoked as I am under the age of 21 and received my second...
Nathan
I was referred to Mr. Cespedes by a family friend who was very pleased with his legal services. Unfortunately, I got a DUI a few months ago and I was...
Connie
He cares and did everything possible to help me resolve my case. I was worried about my hit and run and DUI case. Not only did he go to court...
Pablo M.
Armando gets results with your best interest in mind. I was wrongfully being accused of making primal threats. Even though I was innocent, I was aware that the accusations are...
Raul
Extremely professional I recently had a brief phone consultation with Mr. Cespedes regarding a longtime friend of mine. Although he was unable to assist him with his legal needs, I...
Shereen

Find The Right Attorney For Free

Get help to resolve your case fast, quietly, and in your favor,
Fill out the form below for your consultation

Choose where to leave a review

Thank you! We need your help. Would you share your experience on one of these sites?

If you have concerns you wish to address privately