How can a California 484-488 PC back in 1994 affect citizenship?

In looking at the California criminal code, the section that you cite appears to relate to petty theft. Five years is the usual period of time required for good moral character, and an offense like petty theft committed in 1994 far exceeds the five-year limit. It should not affect any application for naturalization in the absence of other criminal offenses. (I assume that if the petty theft occurred before receipt of permanent residence, the offense was disclosed to the immigration or consular officer). Due to the limitations of the Lawyers.com Forums, Alan Lee & Arthur Lee, Esqs.’ (the "Firm") participation in responding to questions posted herein does not constitute legal advice, nor legal representation of the person or entity posting a question. No Attorney/Client relationship is or shall be construed to be created hereby. The information provided herein by the Firm is general, and requires that the poster obtain specific legal advice from an attorney. The poster shall not rely upon the information provided herein as legal advice nor as the basis for making any decisions of legal consequence.