California Penal Code 484e – Theft of Access Card or Account Information

Overview

Penal Code 484e PC criminalizes the theft or misuse of access card information, such as credit cards, debit cards, and related account numbers. This includes stealing someone’s physical card, obtaining their account details without consent, or using card data to commit fraud.

PC 484e is part of California’s broader identity theft and financial fraud statutes. Depending on the circumstances, it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, and may carry state prison time, restitution orders, and lasting consequences on your record.

At Jones Trial Attorneys, we know how to challenge digital evidence, expose investigative flaws, and fight for dismissals or reduced charges whenever possible.

Legal Definition

Penal Code § 484e prohibits several types of conduct involving access cards or account data:

• 484e(a): Selling, transferring, or acquiring a stolen access card with the intent to defraud

• 484e(b): Acquiring access card information without the cardholder’s consent

• 484e(c): Retaining or possessing a stolen access card

• 484e(d): Manufacturing, altering, or forging access cards

In all cases, the key element is intent to defraud.

Elements of the Crime

To convict someone under PC 484e, the prosecution must prove:

1. The defendant acquired or retained a stolen, lost, or fraudulent access card or card information;

2. The defendant knew they did not have the owner’s consent; and

3. The defendant acted with intent to defraud another person or financial institution.

No money needs to be lost—the intent to defraud is sufficient.

Penalties for PC 484e Violations

Like many white collar crimes, PC 484e is a wobbler, and can be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Misdemeanor Penalties:

• Up to 1 year in county jail

• Up to $1,000 in fines

• Summary probation

Felony Penalties:

• 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail

• Fines up to $10,000

• Formal probation

• Restitution to the alleged victim

Felony charges are more likely when:

• Multiple cards are involved

• A large financial loss occurred

• The defendant has a prior record

Defenses to PC 484e Charges

We tailor every defense strategy to the specific facts. Common defenses include:

• Lack of intent to defraud

• Consent – You had permission to use or hold the card

• Mistaken identity or false accusation

• Insufficient evidence – The link between you and the card is too weak

• Unlawful search or seizure – The card or data was found via an illegal search

Immigration and Employment Consequences

PC 484e is a crime of moral turpitude and may:

• Lead to deportation or inadmissibility for non-citizens

• Disqualify individuals from employment in finance, government, or security

• Impact licensing for real estate, healthcare, or law professionals

We handle forgery, fraud, and identity theft charges with immigration-safe resolutions in mind.

Related Offenses

• PC 484g – Fraudulent use of an access card

• PC 530.5 – Identity Theft

• PC 470 – Forgery

• PC 459 – Burglary (if used to enter a location to commit fraud)

How Jones Trial Attorneys Can Help

Access card theft cases often involve digital evidence, financial records, and witness testimony—and that’s where our courtroom experience gives you an edge. We move quickly to assess the prosecution’s case, suppress unlawful evidence, and negotiate smart outcomes.

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