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In Florida, the value and type of stolen property determines the theft charge a person may face. Theft of low-value items typically results in petit theft, but if the value exceeds $750 or involves protected categories of property, it’s classified as grand theft—a felony offense.
Third-Degree Grand Theft in Florida
Third-degree grand theft generally involves stolen property valued between $750 and $20,000. However, this charge may also apply if the property was taken from someone’s home and valued between $100 and $750.
No Minimum Value Needed for Certain Property Types
Even if the value is low, third-degree grand theft can be charged if the stolen property includes:
- Wills
- Controlled substances
- Firearms
- Motor vehicles
- Commercially farmed animals
- Anhydrous ammonia
- Items taken from a construction site
- Over 2,000 individual pieces of citrus fruit
- Installed fire extinguishers
- Stop signs
Penalty: Up to 5 years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine.
What Is Second-Degree Grand Theft?
Second-degree grand theft typically refers to property valued between $20,000 and $100,000. Other circumstances that may lead to this charge include:
- Theft of emergency medical or law enforcement equipment valued at $300 or more
- Property worth $5,000 to $20,000 stolen during a state of emergency or riot
- Cargo under $50,000 that has entered interstate or intrastate commerce
Penalty: Up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
First-Degree Grand Theft in Florida
First-degree grand theft is the most serious theft charge in Florida. It applies to property valued at $100,000 or more, or in the following cases:
- Cargo worth more than $50,000 in commerce
- Any grand theft causing over $1,000 in property damage
- Theft involving a semitrailer used by law enforcement
- Use of a motor vehicle to commit the theft (not just a getaway car)
A second-degree grand theft committed during a riot or state of emergency may also be upgraded to first-degree if the conditions contributed to the crime.
Penalty: Up to 30 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.
Enhanced Penalties for Certain Theft Cases
Florida law allows for enhanced penalties under specific conditions:
- Repeat offenders may face double the prison sentence for second- or third-degree grand theft. A third offense for first-degree grand theft may even result in a life sentence.
- Theft involving a victim age 65 or older can result in upgraded charges, mandatory restitution, and community service.
- You may also face additional charges if a firearm was used or the victim was injured during the theft.
Building Your Grand Theft Defense
If you’re facing felony theft charges in Florida, working with an experienced Florida grand theft defense attorney is critical. A knowledgeable lawyer will:
- Investigate the facts of your case
- Evaluate the prosecution’s evidence
- Determine viable defenses—such as lack of criminal intent or disputed property value
In some cases, you may be able to show that you reasonably believed you had a legal right to the property, or that the property’s value doesn’t meet the felony threshold.
Speak With a Florida Grand Theft Defense Lawyer
At George Reres Law, we help Florida residents charged with serious theft and felony crimes fight for the best possible outcome. Call us today at (954) 523-3811 or complete our confidential contact form to schedule a consultation.
