People v. Joey G.

Joey G., a minor, was charged with one count of felony grand theft of personal property (Pen. Code, §487, subd. (a); count 1) and one count of felony receipt of stolen property (Pen. Code, § 496, subd. (a); count 2). After the first count was reduced to a misdemeanor and the second count was dismissed, Joey admitted to the allegation of the first count. The court returned a true finding as to count 1 and declared Joey a ward of the court.

Joey appeals, arguing the court erred when it failed to obtain and consider a joint report pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 1 section 241.1 and make a determination as to whether the status of ward or dependent would best serve his interests. Joey also argues he is entitled to the benefit of the 2011 amendment to Penal Code section 487, subdivision (a), which increased the threshold dollar amount for grand theft.

In the published portion of this opinion, we reverse the court’s decision regarding Joey’s status as a ward and remand the judgment to permit the court to obtain and consider a joint report prepared by Joey’s probation officer and social worker in accordance with section 241.1. We publish on this issue to underscore…