Theft crimes range from robberies and burglaries to shoplifting incidents. State prosecutors can charge people with a theft offense for a variety of different actions. Many people assume that non-violent property crimes are minor criminal offenses. They may feel quite shocked to discover that prosecutors intend to pursue felony charges against them.
Some theft offenses are misdemeanor crimes, but others are serious enough to warrant felony prosecution. The use of a deadly weapon and other aggravating factors are not necessary for the state to bring felony charges. Individuals facing criminal charges in Florida may benefit from understanding the difference between misdemeanor petit theft and felony grand theft according to Florida statutes.
The value of the items
Frequently, the most important factor when determining the charges in a theft case is the total value of the assets involved. If the value of the property stolen reaches $750, the state can pursue felony theft charges against the person accused. Many minor theft cases, such as shoplifting scenarios, fall far short of that threshold. However, these offenses should not be brushed off as inconsequential offenses because they are still categorized as crimes of dishonesty and can have lifelong impacts on your future.
Protected property categories
Florida does have special, extra-strict rules that apply to the theft of certain types of property. For example, the theft of anhydrous ammonia, frequently used in drug manufacturing, is typically always a felony offense.
The theft of items from certain protected parties can also warrant felony prosecution. Those who steal from law enforcement agencies or emergency medical care providers may face felony charges instead of misdemeanor charges regardless of the value of the items involved. Wills, vehicles, firearms, farm animals, large quantities of citrus fruits, controlled substances and traffic signs are also all items that lead to felony theft charges.
Sometimes, understanding the nuance of the law can be beneficial for those facing criminal charges. Mr. Viacava may be able to establish that the circumstances do not warrant felony charges. Those accused of theft offenses may face both financial penalties and the risk of incarceration or probation. The exact penalties they may face can change significantly depending on the criminal record of the person accused, the nature of the items involved in the incident and the overall value of those assets.
Reviewing the details of an alleged theft offense in depth with a skilled legal team such as the Lee Viacava Law Firm could help people start planning a viable defense strategy. Defendants who understand Florida law can use that information as they prepare to respond to criminal charges.