What is Grand Theft in Florida?
In the state of Florida, grand theft is a serious criminal offense that involves the theft of property valued at $750 or more. This offense is considered a felony and can result in severe consequences, including imprisonment and fines. In this article, we will explore the definition of grand theft in Florida, the different types of grand theft, and the penalties associated with this crime.
Definition of Grand Theft in Florida
According to Florida Statute 812.014, grand theft is defined as the "theft of any stolen property that is valued at $750 or more, regardless of the manner in which the theft was accomplished." This means that grand theft can occur through various means, including burglary, larceny, embezzlement, and extortion.
Types of Grand Theft in Florida
There are several types of grand theft in Florida, including:
- Theft of a motor vehicle: This type of grand theft involves the theft of a motor vehicle, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
- Theft of a boat: This type of grand theft involves the theft of a boat, including sailboats, powerboats, and pontoon boats.
- Theft of a tractor or other heavy equipment: This type of grand theft involves the theft of tractor or other heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, and forklifts.
- Theft of a firearm: This type of grand theft involves the theft of a firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
- Theft of jewelry or other precious items: This type of grand theft involves the theft of jewelry or other precious items, such as diamonds, gold, and silver.
Penalties for Grand Theft in Florida
The penalties for grand theft in Florida depend on the value of the stolen property and the individual’s criminal history. Grand theft in the third degree, which involves the theft of property valued at $750 or more but less than $20,000, is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Grand theft in the second degree, which involves the theft of property valued at $20,000 or more but less than $100,000, is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Grand theft in the first degree, which involves the theft of property valued at $100,000 or more, is a felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Consequences of Grand Theft in Florida
In addition to the criminal penalties, grand theft in Florida can also have serious consequences for the individual’s future, including:
- Criminal record: A conviction for grand theft can result in a criminal record, which can make it difficult to find employment, obtain a loan, or rent an apartment.
- Fines and court costs: In addition to the criminal penalties, the individual may also be responsible for paying fines and court costs, which can add up quickly.
- Restitution: The individual may also be required to pay restitution to the victim, which can include the value of the stolen property and any other losses or damages.
- Civil lawsuits: The victim of grand theft may also have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the individual, which can result in additional penalties and damages.
Defenses to Grand Theft in Florida
There are several defenses that can be used to defend against charges of grand theft in Florida, including:
- Lack of evidence: The prosecution may not have enough evidence to prove that the individual committed the crime, or that the property was stolen.
- Misidentification: The individual may be able to prove that they were misidentified as the perpetrator of the crime.
- Duress or coercion: The individual may be able to argue that they were forced or coerced into committing the crime.
- False accusations: The individual may be able to argue that the accusations are false and were made maliciously.
Conclusion
Grand theft is a serious criminal offense in Florida that can result in severe consequences, including imprisonment and fines. It is important to understand the definition and penalties associated with grand theft, as well as the defenses that can be used to defend against charges. If you or someone you know has been accused of grand theft, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.
Table: Grand Theft Penalties in Florida
| Value of Stolen Property | Penalty |
|---|---|
| $750 or more but less than $20,000 | Grand Theft in the Third Degree: Up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 |
| $20,000 or more but less than $100,000 | Grand Theft in the Second Degree: Up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 |
| $100,000 or more | Grand Theft in the First Degree: Up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 |
Bullets:
• Grand theft is a felony in Florida that can result in imprisonment and fines.
• The value of the stolen property determines the penalty for grand theft in Florida.
• There are several types of grand theft in Florida, including theft of a motor vehicle, boat, tractor, firearm, and jewelry or other precious items.
• The individual’s criminal history can also impact the penalty for grand theft in Florida.
• A conviction for grand theft in Florida can result in a criminal record, fines, and court costs.
• The individual may also be required to pay restitution to the victim and could be subject to civil lawsuits.
