How does a theft investigation work?

[Froggy]

How does a theft investigation work? My gma was robbed of her check book, in california, and two checks were cashed for over 400 dollars that the she didn't write. She hadn't immediately closed the account because she wasn't sure if it was stolen or misplaced. She made a police report over the phone today. What would the police or sherrifs office do to catch the crimminal and what would happen to said crimminal? I think it was my adult sister that took her checkbook, she doesn't have any priors that I know of. I would really like to know that if she's caught she can still be punished even though she's related.

[Byu]

You didn't say what state you were in, but in my state any theft over the amount of $50 is a felony. Also, your grandmother needs to press charges even if the perpertrator is your sister. She wouldn't be doing her a favor in the long run by letting this just be forgotten even if it is her own granddaughter. She needs to be taught a lesson. Theft is a crime no matter if you steal from your grandmother or a total stranger.

Byu

[Froggy]

Thanks for your reply. I thought I had mentioned that we all live in California. Sorry about that. I agree that she should press charges and will do my best to support her in doing that. When can she press charges? Is it after the police have gotten enough evidence pointing to her? She filed a report but what happens now? Thanks again.

Froggy

[darrell]

here in Michigan the catagory for a felony is theft in excess of $1000. It used to be a $100 but it changed. Usually a detective wil handle the case but that also depends on the size of the department. If your grandma hasn't heard anything by now from the police she needs to call them and get the info and talk to the investigator....