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Jack-O’-Lanterns: An Irish Tradition

Posted on by Robin
Jack-O'-Lanterns: An Irish Tradition
The term Jack-o'-the Lantern referred to ignis fatuus, lights that would appear over swampy marshes that had no apparent cause. Will-0'-the Wisp is another folk term used to describe these lights. The eponymous "Jack" in Jack-o'-the-Lantern was said to be an 18th century blacksmith nobody liked because he was mean-spirited. It was said that Jack tricked the Devil and was given an ember straight out of hell to light his lantern as he wanders the earth alone for all of eternity. While there are...
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Grand Theft, Petty Theft, and Shoplifting

Posted on by Ryan Avery
Grand Theft, Petty Theft, and Shoplifting
The difference between petty theft and grand theft in the State of California depends on the value of the stolen merchandise. Generally, when someone steals something valued at or below $950 it is charged as a misdemeanor-level petty theft crime. When the cost is over $950, grand theft (which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony) is usually charged. When it comes to theft crimes in California, they all have similar elements: Property existed owned by someone else The sus...
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What Is Reckless Burning?

Posted on by Robin
What Is Reckless Burning?
Wildfires raging across the state will wreak devastation wherever they pass. Many of these fires are started through natural means or by no fault of anyone else, while others have been started deliberately. When a fire is started deliberately and maliciously, it's known as 451 PC - arson. When a person ignites or burns something without malice, they can be charged with 452 PC - reckless burning. The law makes it a crime to recklessly burn any forest land, structure, or property. A few exam...
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