Isabella Carter
In Florida, the distinction between a misdemeanor and a felony theft charge is based on the value of the stolen goods, with the threshold set at \$750. Theft of property valued at \$750 or more is considered grand theft and is a felony, while theft of property valued at less than \$750 is considered petit theft or petty theft and is a misdemeanor. The degree of the felony and the associated penalties depend on the value of the stolen property, with first-degree felony theft involving property valued at \$100,000 or more, resulting in up to 30 years in prison and significant fines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Threshold for felony theft | $750 |
| Third-degree felony theft | $750 to $20,000 |
| Second-degree felony theft | $20,000 to $100,000 |
| First-degree felony theft | $100,000 or more |
| Theft of motor vehicles | Third-degree felony |
| Theft of firearms | Third-degree felony |
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What You'll Learn
Theft of $750 or more is a felony
Theft of items valued at $750 or more is considered "grand theft" in Florida, which is a felony offense. This distinction is important as it carries significantly harsher penalties than petit theft or simple theft, which is classified as a misdemeanor for amounts below $750. The consequences of a felony conviction can be life-changing, impacting your personal, professional, and everyday life.
The specific classification of the felony, such as first, second, or third degree, depends on the value of the stolen property. For instance, theft of property valued between $750 and $20,000 is typically considered a third-degree felony, which can result in up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000. The penalties increase with the value of the stolen items.
It's worth noting that certain types of property, such as firearms, motor vehicles, and emergency medical equipment, can trigger felony charges regardless of their value due to the nature of the items involved and the potential harm to public safety.
If you or someone you know is facing theft charges, it is crucial to seek legal counsel to understand the potential penalties and navigate the complexities of the law.
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$750-$20,000 is a third-degree felony
In Florida, theft becomes a felony when the amount of stolen items surpasses $750. Previously, the threshold for a felony charge was $350, but this was changed in 2019. Anything below $750 is considered petit theft, a misdemeanor offense. However, petit theft can be further categorised into second-degree and first-degree misdemeanors, with penalties ranging from 60 days to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Grand theft, on the other hand, is a felony and pertains to property valued at $750 or more. The degree of the felony varies based on the value of the stolen property. In Florida, theft of $750 to $20,000 is a third-degree felony, which may result in up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a $5,000 fine. This category also includes thefts involving firearms, farm animals, or controlled substances, as well as thefts from dwellings valued between $100 and $750.
The consequences of a felony charge are severe and life-altering. A felony conviction can result in jail time, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. It can also lead to the suspension or revocation of professional licenses. It is important to note that the felony threshold is not static and can change as laws are amended. Therefore, staying informed about the current laws and seeking legal counsel are crucial if facing theft charges.
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$20,000-$100,000 is a second-degree felony
In Florida, theft is classified as a second-degree felony when the value of the stolen property is between $20,000 and $100,000. This is a significant threshold, as it indicates a serious criminal intent and can result in severe penalties for the offender.
Second-degree felony charges for property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 can lead to substantial jail time, with potential sentences of up to 15 years in prison. Additionally, those convicted may face substantial fines, with a $10,000 fine being a possible financial repercussion.
The consequences of a second-degree felony conviction extend beyond incarceration and fines. A felony conviction remains on an individual's record and can have life-altering consequences, impacting their personal and professional lives. It is crucial for anyone facing such charges to seek experienced legal counsel to navigate the complexities of their case and mitigate potential long-term repercussions.
It is important to note that the felony threshold in Florida is not static and can change over time as laws are amended. Therefore, staying informed about the current limits is vital, especially for those facing theft charges.
The threshold for second-degree felony theft in Florida underscores the state's stance on criminal activities involving significant monetary values. It serves as a deterrent and reinforces the seriousness with which the justice system treats offenses that cause substantial financial harm to victims.
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Over $100,000 is a first-degree felony
Theft in Florida is categorized based on the value of the stolen property. The value of the stolen property determines the degree of felony charges and the associated penalties.
If the value of the stolen property exceeds $100,000, it constitutes a first-degree felony. First-degree felony charges are the most severe category of felony theft and carry severe penalties. In addition to the value of the stolen property, certain circumstances can also lead to first-degree felony charges. These circumstances include:
- Theft involving cargo in transit valued at $50,000 or more.
- Theft causing $1,000 or more in damage to personal property.
- Theft involving the use of a vehicle to assist in committing the crime (excluding a getaway car).
The penalties for a first-degree felony theft conviction can include up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000. These penalties are life-changing and can cause damage to the convicted person's personal, professional, and everyday life.
It is important to note that the felony threshold and associated penalties can change over time as laws are amended. Therefore, staying informed about the current laws and seeking legal counsel is crucial if facing theft charges.
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Stealing certain items is always a felony
In Florida, stealing items worth $750 or more is considered grand theft, which is a felony. However, the type of property stolen is also important. Certain items, if stolen, will constitute a felony, regardless of their value. These include firearms, motor vehicles, and controlled substances.
Grand theft charges can result in severe penalties, including significant jail time and fines. The degree of felony and associated repercussions depend on the value or nature of the property stolen. For instance, stealing property valued between $750 and $20,000 is a third-degree felony, which can result in up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000.
Theft of property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 is considered a second-degree felony, potentially leading to up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The stakes are even higher when the stolen property's value exceeds $100,000, as this constitutes a first-degree felony, with penalties of up to 30 years in prison and a $30,000 fine.
Additionally, stealing certain items during specific circumstances can elevate the charges to a second-degree felony. For example, theft of property valued between $5,000 and $20,000 during a declared state of emergency or a riot is considered a second-degree felony. Similarly, stealing cargo valued at less than $50,000 that has entered interstate or intrastate commerce or stealing emergency medical or law enforcement equipment valued at $300 or more are also considered second-degree felonies.
It is important to note that the felony threshold in Florida was not always set at $750. In the past, the threshold for a felony charge was $350, but Governor Ron DeSantis changed the law in 2019, raising the threshold to $750.
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Frequently asked questions
In Florida, theft becomes a felony when the amount of stolen items surpasses $750.
Theft of property valued at $750 or more is considered grand theft and is a third-degree felony. It can result in up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a $5,000 fine.
Stealing $1000 is considered a felony in Florida and can result in a third-degree felony charge.
Theft of property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 is considered a second-degree felony. It can lead to up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Theft of property valued at $100,000 or more is considered a first-degree felony. It can carry a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a $30,000 fine.
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