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-Editorial
James Salazar, an Imperial resident, has been sentenced to four years and four months in county jail following his conviction for grand theft and embezzlement. The case stems from a July 2024 investigation by the Imperial Police Department into allegations that Salazar, while serving as trustee of a family trust, embezzled approximately $300,000 from relatives entitled to inheritance shares.
The family filed a civil lawsuit in Imperial County Superior Court, resulting in a judgment of $797,956.91 against Salazar, which included double damages and attorney’s fees.
After a joint investigation by the Imperial Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office, Salazar was criminally charged with multiple counts of grand theft and embezzlement. Prosecutors alleged aggravating factors, including premeditated actions, sophisticated planning, and abuse of a position of trust.
On May 13, 2025, Salazar entered a no-contest plea to all charges and admitted to the aggravating circumstances. He was formally sentenced on June 25, 2025, and is currently in the custody of the Imperial County Sheriff.
In California, embezzlement is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted with it, and penalties vary depending on the value of the property and whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. If the value of the embezzled property is under $950, the offense is typically considered petty theft and charged as a misdemeanor, carrying a potential sentence of up to six months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. However, if the amount exceeds $950, the offense becomes grand theft and may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. As a misdemeanor, grand theft may result in up to one year in county jail and similar fines.
Felony embezzlement involves more serious consequences. When charged as a felony, grand theft of property valued over $950 can lead to 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison, along with fines up to $10,000. Embezzlement involving public funds is treated with even greater severity, carrying potential sentences of 2 or 4 years in state prison, significant fines, and permanent disqualification from holding public office. In cases where the amount embezzled exceeds $65,000 or involves vulnerable victims such as the elderly or dependents, the crime may be classified as aggravated embezzlement, resulting in enhanced penalties, including additional prison time.
Courts may also impose alternative or additional consequences based on the specifics of the case. Restitution is commonly ordered, requiring the defendant to repay the embezzled amount to the victim. Probation may be granted instead of or alongside incarceration and can include conditions such as community service, mandatory restitution, or counseling. Furthermore, a conviction for embezzlement can impact an individual’s career, as some professional licenses may be revoked. Factors such as the defendant’s intent, the value of the property involved, and any prior criminal history play a significant role in determining the severity of the sentence.