Penalties for Shoplifting in Florida
In Florida, shoplifting is one of the most common criminal offenses. There may be different motivations for someone committing these crimes, including organized retail theft, adolescent rebellion, and desperation, to name just a few. In Florida, retail theft crimes, commonly known as shoplifting, are charged as either petit theft or grand theft, depending on the circumstances as well as the value of the stolen goods. Regardless of the type of theft you are charged with, it is critical that you speak to a Fort Lauderdale theft offense lawyer.
Penalties for Shoplifting in Florida
In recent years, an epidemic of retail theft caused many stores to lock up sections of commonly stolen items or even close hard-hit stores altogether. Everyday items such as toothpaste and deodorant are often stolen.
When the total value of stolen goods in a shoplifting case is $749 or less, the charge is typically classified as misdemeanor petit theft. If convicted, individuals can face up to six months in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. Having multiple petit theft charges in your past could also cause this simple misdemeanor crime to be upcharged as a felony where you would then likely face up to fiver years in Florida State Prison. In cases that involve a total value of stolen goods of $750 or greater, felony grand theft will likely be charged.
The prosecution has the discretion to decide whether to charge theft as a misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties in these felony cases can include a state prison sentence. For example, in order for a charge of third degree grand theft to apply, one or more of the following must be true:
- The value of the stolen goods must be greater than $750 but less than $20,000
- A controlled substance was stolen
- A firearm was stolen
- A motor vehicle was stolen
- A hotel or restaurant employee stole anything of value during the course of their employment
In Florida, a conviction for third degree grand theft can result in up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000.
Defenses to Shoplifting in Florida
There are several defenses available in shoplifting cases. For example, in order to be convicted of the crime, you must have willingly and knowingly stolen an item. Simply forgetting to pay for something before leaving a store is not enough to constitute shoplifting. Other defenses to these charges might be:
- Coercion
- Mistaken identity
- Lack of evidence
A Fort Lauderdale theft offense lawyer can review the facts of your case and determine the best defense strategy for you.
Call Our Theft Offense Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Today
Regardless of the circumstances in your case, if you have been charged with shoplifting, it is critical that you obtain legal counsel. At Haber Blank, our Fort Lauderdale theft offense lawyer can build the strong defense you need to avoid a conviction and retain your future. Call us now at 954-767-0300 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.uSources:s/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0800-0899/0812/Sections/0812.015.html
nypost.com/2022/02/10/nyc-rite-aid-plagued-by-string-of-thefts-closes-its-doors/?utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=metro_news_alert&utm_content=20220210&lctg=6079a658dc3ab945724e9ebe&utm_term=NYP – Metro Alerts
