The L.A. City Attorney thinks Bai Ling's acting isn't the only thing that's criminal.

City Attorney spokesman Frank Mateljan tells TMZ Bai has been charged with petty theft for allegedly stealing two magazines and a pack of batteries from a gift shop at LAX.

Total value of the items -- $16.22. Charging that amount is a felony in 14 states.

Her arraignment is set for Wednesday.