Types of Theft Crimes in Florida

Florida law recognizes several types of theft crimes, all taken very seriously by the criminal justice system. The specific theft crime with which you are charged will depend on the nature of the alleged offense and the property's value. Certain factors, such as the use of force or violence, the use of a weapon, or the involvement of multiple theft crimes, can also lead to enhanced charges and penalties.

Theft crimes in Florida include:

• Petit theft: This is the most basic type of theft crime in Florida. It occurs when an individual knowingly and unlawfully obtains or uses another person's property to either temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of their right to the property or to appropriate the property to their own use. Petit theft generally involves property valued at less than $750, but if the offender has prior theft convictions, they may be charged with petit theft for stealing property valued at less than $100.
• Grand theft: This type of theft crime involves stealing property valued at $750 or more. If the offender is accused of stealing a firearm, a motor vehicle, a will or other testamentary instrument, a commercially farmed animal, certain types of construction equipment, or medical equipment from a licensed facility, they may be charged with grand theft, regardless of the value of the property.
• Carjacking: This is a type of robbery that involves taking another person's motor vehicle from their immediate presence and against their will. Carjacking is a first-degree felony and is punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
• Robbery: Robbery occurs when an individual uses force, violence, or the threat of force or violence to take another person's property from their person or custody. Robbery is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison; if a deadly weapon is used, the offense is upgraded to a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
• Embezzlement: This type of theft crime involves misappropriating or misusing funds or property that was entrusted to you by another person or entity. Embezzlement is a white-collar crime and is generally charged as a felony.
• Identity theft: Identity theft occurs when an individual uses another person's personal identifying information, such as their name, Social Security number, or credit card information, without their consent, intending to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft is a serious crime and is generally charged as a felony.
• Shoplifting: Shoplifting is a theft when an individual steals merchandise from a retail store or establishment. Shoplifting is a serious crime that can lead to significant penalties, even for first-time offenders.

Defending Against Theft Crime Charges

Depending on the nature of the theft crime you are charged with, you could face a wide range of penalties, including imprisonment, probation, fines, and restitution. In addition, a theft crime conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, making it difficult to find employment, obtain housing, or secure loans in the future. However, several different defense strategies can be used to fight theft crime charges, and, in some cases, it may be possible to get the charges dismissed or reduced.

Possible defenses to theft crime charges include:

• Insufficient evidence: To obtain a conviction, the prosecution must prove that you committed the theft crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence against you is weak or the prosecution's case is flawed, it may be possible to get the charges dropped or dismissed.
• False accusations: Individuals are sometimes wrongfully accused of theft crimes. This can happen due to mistaken identity, misunderstanding, or malicious intent. Our team can thoroughly investigate your case and gather evidence to prove that you are innocent of the charges against you.
• Coerced confession: Sometimes, individuals are coerced into making false confessions to crimes they did not commit. If you confessed to a theft crime, we can investigate the confession's circumstances and determine if it was coerced or otherwise inadmissible in court.
• Fourth Amendment violations: The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during their investigation, it may be possible to get the evidence against you suppressed, and the charges against you dropped.
• Entrapment: In some cases, law enforcement uses entrapment techniques to catch individuals committing theft. If you were entrapped by law enforcement, it may be possible to get the charges against you dismissed.

The Implications of a Theft Conviction in Duval County

Being convicted of a theft crime in Duval County carries significant consequences beyond immediate legal penalties. A conviction can lead to long-lasting impacts on one’s ability to secure employment and housing and even affect personal relationships due to the stigma associated with having a criminal record. Employers and landlords in Duval County are often wary of individuals with theft convictions, which can create prolonged obstacles to rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.

Moreover, a conviction in Duval County is often accompanied by specific legal requirements such as restitution payments, mandatory community service, or attendance in rehabilitation programs. These add financial and time burdens and impose strict compliance demands on the convicted individual. Understanding these implications is vital for anyone facing theft charges, as it underscores the importance of a robust legal defense that can potentially mitigate these harsh outcomes and provide a fair chance at overcoming the challenges of a conviction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Crimes

What Should I Do If I Am Accused of Theft in Duval County?

If accused of theft in Duval County, it is crucial to remain calm and refrain from providing statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Collecting any potential evidence or information regarding the incident can be helpful for your attorney. Immediately contacting a theft crime attorney in Duval County, like those at First Coast Criminal Defense, will ensure you have guidance in navigating the legal processes that follow an accusation.

How Does Florida Law Differentiate Between Petit and Grand Theft?

Florida law distinguishes between petit theft and grand theft primarily based on the property's value. Petit theft generally involves items valued at less than $750, while grand theft involves property worth $750 or more. In Duval County, as elsewhere in Florida, prior convictions or specific types of stolen items can also escalate a petit theft charge to grand theft, reflecting the seriousness of the act.

Can a Theft Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?

In some situations, theft charges in Duval County can be reduced or dismissed, especially if procedural errors are discovered in handling the case or if negotiations can be successfully conducted with the prosecution. Engaging in adept legal representation can significantly increase the likelihood of achieving a more favorable outcome through structured plea agreements or trial advocacy.

Contact Our Theft Crime Lawyer in Duval County Today

Being charged with a theft crime is a serious matter that requires the attention of an experienced criminal defense attorney. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we understand the stress and anxiety that comes along with facing a theft crime charge, and we are here to provide you with the guidance, support, and aggressive legal representation you need. When you choose our team, you can expect responsive communication, personalized legal strategies, and aggressive advocacy every step of the way.

To get started on your defense, call our Jacksonville theft crimes attorney at (904) 474-3115 or contact us online. We offer free, confidential consultations.