Actually in this case value has no effect as it is a felony robbery as the property was taken with force or fear. Doesn't matter if it was a $25,000 ring or a ring out of a gumball machine. As far as thefts go $400 and under is a misdemeanor (Petty Theft) over $400 a felony (Grand Theft). There are some exceptions, one of which Roy will be glad to hear, the theft of fruits-vetables- nuts over $100 becomes Grand Theft. There are other exceptions but if anybody really cares they can check out 487 of the Penal Code. As for which is worked harder its a no brainer. When I retired all Petty Thefts without suspects or leads were not even dispatched but cleared with an event number given to the victim. If there was a suspect/lead the patrol officer originally assigned the call would work the case to the end. On Grand Thefts the patrol officer would take the original report and do as much work on it as time allowed before sending it through the system. If there were no leads the case might be suspended at that level or be sent to investigations with the workable cases. Due to the caseload in investigations the cases are prioritized so a minor Grand Theft or similar case might collect a little dust in the "In Basket". That's just my opinion, but I could be Wrong.