Irvine Man Arrested for Alleged Grand Theft Near 24-Hour Fitness

By Randy Collins  Jan. 7, 2014 10:09a

According to reports, a man was allegedly found hiding in the backseat of a vehicle parked outside of the 24-Hour Fitness in Irvine, California. The vehicle's owner told local authorities that he found the man after his work out at which time he immediately called the police. The suspect allegedly fled the 24-hour Fitness parking lot, but was later sniffed out by an Irvine K-9 unit. The suspect, 42-year-old Alexie Rodriguez, was booked on suspicion of using a controlled substance as well as grand theft. Rodriguez allegedly stole multiple items from the vehicle, including a cell phone.

Why 24-Hour Fitness?

Those who engage in a lifestyle that relies upon criminal activity for survival may see fitness center parking lots as a potential target. Many fitness centers are open around the clock, allowing their patrons to use the facilities at all hours of the day and night. For a busy individual with an uncommon work and/or sleep schedule this can be very convenient, but they may be putting their valuables in an unsafe area if they are working out at late hours.

Someone who is used to committing premeditated burglaries and/or car thefts may scope out parking lots at such times to attempt a vehicle theft shortly after someone leaves their car to start their workout. This would likely give them enough time to take valuable items from a car, or even steal the car itself.

Is Alexie Rodriguez Guilty?

Alexie Rodriguez has only been arrested for being under suspicion of grand theft and using a controlled substance. This does not mean that Alexie Rodriguez is guilty. Although it may seem as though he is guilty with the information that has been provided by authorities, his guilt will not be able to be determined until he has either pled guilty to his crimes, or has been convicted.

If reports are correct, Rodriguez will face charges for grand theft. In California, grand theft violations usually result in a charge for violating California Penal Code 487. According to PC 487, a person commits grand theft in California when they unlawfully take someone else's property under the following circumstances:

• The property was worth more than $900
• The property was a firearm or car
• The property was obtained in a mugging-like fashion

What Penalties Does Rodriguez Face If Convicted

Violations of California Penal Code 487 (Grand Theft) can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor offense. Rodriguez's handling prosecutor will be the one that decides which charge he or she will be pursuing on behalf of the state of California.

The following are the maximum penalties for misdemeanor and felony violations of PC 487:

Misdemeanor Grand Theft

• Up to one year in jail

Felony Grand Theft

• Up to three years in jail

If you or your loved one are facing grand theft charges in Southern California, speaking with a skilled criminal defense attorney could prove to be very beneficial. With assistance from an experience legal professional, you may be able to expose flaws in the prosecution's case. In some circumstances evidence and/or the way in which evidence is collected can be deemed inadmissible, leading to case dismissals and dropped charges.

Call 888-250-2865 today to obtain a free grand theft case evaluation from our experienced criminal defense lawyers. We can help you better understand the charges that have been brought against you as well as potential options to get you and yours back on your feet.