Petit Theft vs. Grand Theft

Theft is the unauthorized taking or use of another person’s property. In Florida, if found guilty of this action, there are two main types of theft a person could be charged with.

Depending on the worth of the item(s) stolen, a person can be charged with either petit theft or grand theft. Petit theft holds less severe punishments, as it is considered a misdemeanor. If a person is charged with grand theft, they will face a felony conviction, hefty fines and a long prison sentence.

To be charged with petit theft, a person must have stolen property with a total worth of up to $299.

There are two degrees of petit theft:

  1. Second Degree Petit Theft: The stolen property value does not exceed $100. The punishment for this is a $500 fine and 60 days in jail.
  2. First Degree Petit Theft: The stolen property value is between $100 - $299. The maximum punishment for this is $1,000 fine and up to 1 year in jail.
  3. If convicted of first-degree petit theft 2 times or more, a person will be charged with an elevated third-degree felony.

A charge of grand theft has the potential to severely impact a person’s life, depending on the severity of the crime.

There are three degrees of grand theft:

  1. Third Degree Grand Theft: The stolen property is valued between $300 - $19,000 or the property taken is a motor vehicle, farm animal, firearm, fire extinguisher, 2,000 or more pieces of fruit, anhydrous ammonia, or city-issued signs. The punishment is a $5,000 fine and up to 5 years in jail.
  2. Second Degree Grand Theft: The stolen property is valued between $20,000 - $99,999. The penalty for this is up to $10,000 in fines and 15 years in jail.
  3. First Degree Grand Theft: The stolen property is valued at $100,000 or more. The punishment is up to $10,000 in fines and 30 years in jail.

Theft of any kind is a serious offense that should be treated with the utmost care.

Reach Out to Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A.

Our theft crime attorneys know how time-sensitive a theft charge is. We will work with you to quickly build your defense and help you figure out the best option for a resolution.

Contact us online or call us at (727) 245-9009 for a consultation today.

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