1. An IPOD is on the front seat of a car. The IPOD is worth 300 dollars. The window is open and someone reaches in and removes the IPOD. This is a petty theft, a misdemeanor.
2. Same scenario, but the car is locked and the windows are rolled up. Someone smashes the window and removes the IPOD. This is a vehicle burglary, a felony.
I agree, the laws vary from state to state.
It seems like this sting was mostly focused on thefts from unlocked vehicles (488PC, 487PC).
ARTICLE SNIPPET: “This time of the year, thefts from unlocked vehicles increase and have been a problem throughout Ventura County. Thousand Oaks saw a spike in these types of crimes last fall.”
I agree with you you regarding the description of a burglary of vehicle. (459PC-Auto).
Smiling...former California girl.
I wonder what would happen if a citizen left a large box of donuts in plain view in an unlocked car outside a police station?