Key Differences between Petty Theft and Grand Theft in Sarasota

A criminal taking of the property or services of another without their consent. That legal dictionary definition is the basic crime of theft. Theft occurs when an individual takes another’s property without his or her permission. In reality, theft in Florida is a very broad umbrella term than can include: larceny, stealing, misappropriation, conversion and a number of other offenses.  Depending on the nature of the item and the facts of the case, there are various classifications with varying punishments for theft in Sarasota.

Two types of theft that are commonly charged in Sarasota are petty theft and grand theft. Here’s a look at what each of these entail:

• Petty Theft: Petty theft in Sarasota occurs when the items taken are valued at $299 or less. Petty theft is often classified as first degree or second degree. Both first and second degree petty theft convictions carry fines and potential jail time. Additionally, those individuals that have previous theft convictions will face enhanced penalties. That’s right, even if you have two second degree petty theft convictions for nominally small items, you will be charged with a third degree felony.

• Grand Theft: If the item was valued at over $299 then you will likely be seeing a grand theft charge against you. There are three degrees of grand theft in Sarasota depending on the value and type of the items taken and/or whether there was additional property damage (or otherwise) that took place during the theft. All three degrees of grand theft carry heavy fines and come with the potential for some serious jail time if you are convicted. In almost every scenario, a conviction for grand theft is a felony.

Whether you are being charged with petty theft or grand theft in Sarasota, the legal ramifications can be devastating. In fact, a theft conviction is one of the first questions an employer will ask a job applicant. There are, of course many viable defenses to a theft charge in Sarasota. These include: consent given by the owner of the item in question, a good faith belief of ownership and intoxication.

Because there is an intent element that must be proven in a theft case in Sarasota, the State of Florida has a hefty task in front of it. Put simply, the prosecution in a theft case must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you actually intended to steal the item in question. Our firm has seen many examples where there was no intent at all or business scenarios where the case is actually a civil matter rather than a criminal theft.

Acting quick is imperative when it comes to any type of theft charge in Sarasota. This is especially true in those scenarios in which a security tape is available to prove innocence. Get in touch with the attorneys at Finebloom & Haenel P.A. today for a free consultation on your case. We look forward to hearing from you!