Theft charges in Florida can differ depending on the value of the property and the circumstances of the crime. Knowing the difference between grand theft and petit theft helps you see what is at stake if you are accused of either offense.
What does petit theft mean in Florida?
Any theft that involves property that is worth less than $750 is usually treated as misdemeanor and is split into two degrees based on the property’s worth as either first degree or second degree petit theft. The penalties include jail time from 60 days up to a year and fines of up to $1,000.
The two consequences of any petit theft conviction include a mandatory driver’s license suspension, even on a first offense and automatic elevation of a third theft offense to a third-degree felony punishable not exceeding 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
How is grand theft defined?
Grand theft is when the value of stolen property is $750 or more. Certain items qualify as grand theft regardless of value, including firearms, motor vehicles and controlled substances. Grand theft charges are also considered felonies, which carry more serious consequences compared to misdemeanors.
Florida law divides grand theft into three levels based on the value of the stolen property, with each having its own set of penalties.
1. Third-degree grand theft
This is the least serious grand theft level. It covers property value between $750 and $20,000. This also includes items like motor vehicles and firearms. Offenders risk five years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
2. Second-degree grand theft
This is enforced when property value is between $20,000 and $100,000 and can also include emergency equipment or cargos over $300. Conviction can result in up to 15 years jail time and a fine of $10,000.
3. First-degree grand theft
This is the most severe level and covers theft of property that values over $100,000. This can also involve over $1,000 property damage during the crime or stealing a vehicle. Potential consequences include a 30-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine.
Penalties may also increase when theft involves property that is stolen from a home or occurs during an announced state of emergency, even if the property’s value is low. Repeat offenses carry increasingly severe penalties.
Drawing the line between misdemeanor and felony
The difference between petit theft and grand theft under Florida law is not just a matter of money value. It can mean the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony, between a short jail stay and decades in prison. Knowing how the law applies will help you understand the seriousness of each charge and what is at stake if you face them.