What is Receiving Stolen Property (Penal Code Section 496)?
Receiving stolen property happens when someone purchases or obtains possession of an item that was acquired by the seller or “giver” by theft (i.e. burglary, embezzlement, shoplifting, robbery), fraud or any other unlawful means. Our office has seen this charge arise from purchases allegedly from pawn shops, consignment stores, garage sales and swap meets.
The client who receives the property, knowing at the time that the property was stolen and intending to aid the theft, is guilty of violating Penal Code