Tampa Theft Attorney

Theft Offenses in Florida can have many negative consequences beyond the criminal penalties. If you are convicted of a theft, it could limit your employment opportunities down the road after you resolve the original charge. Under Florida Law, theft offenses are considered crimes of “moral turpitude” or those “involving dishonesty or untruthfulness.” Additionally, theft can be an enhanced charge. That is, for each subsequent theft conviction, the penalties can be increased.

Petty Theft

Thefts that involve less than $300 worth of money, goods, or services are classified as misdemeanors in Florida. A theft of $100 or less worth of money, goods, or services is considered a second degree misdemeanor which can carry up to 60 days jail or 6 months probation. A theft of more than $100 but less than $300 worth of money, goods, or services is considered a first degree misdemeanor and can carry up to 364 days jail or up to one year probation.

Grand theft

Thefts that involve $300 or more worth of money, goods, or services are considered to be felonies in Florida. With the increasing dollar amount of the theft, the greater degree of felony and the greater degree of possible punishment.

Burglary

Any type of burglary is considered a felony in the State of Florida. Burglary is generally a breaking/entering or remaining inside some sort of building, dwelling, vehicle, or other structure with the intent to commit an offense. The potential sentence for burglary ranges from 5 years to life in prison depending on the crime committed once inside.

Robbery

Robbery is also considered a felony in Florida. Robbery is the taking of property through force or the threat of force that places the victim in fear. The potential sentences vary based upon the type and amount of force used.

Other types of theft offenses include:

• Grand Theft Motor Vehicle
• Dealing in Stolen Property
• False Information on a Pawnbroker Form
• Firearm Theft
• Organized Fraud
• Retail Theft
• Embezzlement
• Possesion of Burglery Tools