Theft offenses and property crimes are relatively common. People of all ages and backgrounds in Florida commit theft-related offenses. White-collar professionals might embezzle from their employers. People dealing with substance abuse disorders might burglarize homes or mug people they perceive as tourists.
Those accused of theft offenses in Florida might expect to face misdemeanor charges. They might even feel comfortable with the idea of pleading guilty to a misdemeanor. However, state prosecutors could very well pursue felony charges over a theft-related incident.
When is theft classified as a felony in Florida?
When the property is worth too much
The value of the assets stolen is often what changes misdemeanor theft into felony theft. Florida laws make it a felony to steal property worth $750 or more. Theft of assets worth less than $750 leads to misdemeanor petit theft charges. Assets worth more than $750 lead to grand theft felony charges. Regardless of whether the items taken were from a private residence or a retail shop, the theft of highly valuable property can lead to felony charges.
When the offense involves protected types of property
Florida imposes stricter punishments for certain types of assets. For example, the theft of a will or testamentary instrument is a felony. So is the theft of a firearm or a motor vehicle, regardless of what those items are worth. Animals from commercial farms and even large amounts of citrus fruits can lead to felony grand theft charges. Stealing controlled substances, stop signs or signs posted at construction sites are also felony theft offenses.
When the offense involves violence or a weapon
Felony charges are much more likely in cases involving threats or injury to other parties. Home invasions and armed robberies tend to result in more serious charges than shoplifting from a store by pocketing some makeup. In scenarios where the state alleges that other people got hurt or that there was the potential for injury due to the presence of a deadly weapon, the charges and penalties may become more serious.
Understanding how Florida prosecutors handle theft offenses can be beneficial for those accused of breaking the law. Felony offenses, in particular, require careful consideration because of a risk of significant penalties at issue.
