Theft & Property Crimes – The Law Office of Richard Moncada P.A.

Theft Offenses in Florida

Theft offenses in Florida range from misdemeanor shoplifting allegations to serious felony charges involving high-value property or organized activity. Florida theft crimes are primarily governed by Florida Statute § 812.014, which defines theft and classifies charges based on the value of the property and specific circumstances.

Under § 812.014, Petit Theft generally involves property valued under $750 and is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Grand Theft applies when the value meets or exceeds statutory thresholds — including $750 or more — and may be charged as a third-, second-, or first-degree felony depending on the value and type of property. Certain property, such as firearms, motor vehicles, emergency medical equipment, or law enforcement equipment, may elevate the charge regardless of value.

Grand Theft Charges

Grand Theft charges are divided into value tiers under Florida law:

Third-Degree Grand Theft: Property valued at $750 or more, but less than $20,000 (punishable by up to 5 years in prison).
Second-Degree Grand Theft: Property valued at $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000 (punishable by up to 15 years in prison).
First-Degree Grand Theft: Property valued at $100,000 or more (punishable by up to 30 years in prison).

Burglary of a Structure

Burglary offenses are governed by Florida Statute § 810.02 and involve entering or remaining in a structure, dwelling, or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense inside. Burglary charges are often classified as felonies and may be enhanced based on whether the location was occupied or whether a weapon was involved.

Burglary of a Dwelling: Entry into a home or residence.
Burglary of a Structure: Entry into a non-residential building.
Burglary with Assault or Battery: When the accused commits an assault or battery during the burglary, this offense becomes more serious and may result in harsher penalties.

Dealing in Stolen Property

Dealing in Stolen Property is defined under Florida Statute § 812.019 and is frequently charged as a felony when an individual is alleged to traffic in or distribute stolen goods. Individuals may face charges for selling, pawning, or possessing stolen property, and the penalties depend on the value of the property and the circumstances of the offense.

Criminal Mischief

Criminal Mischief, governed by Florida Statute § 806.13, involves willful damage to property and may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount of damage.

Misdemeanor Criminal Mischief involves damages valued under $1,000.
Felony Criminal Mischief involves damages valued at $1,000 or more and may also be upgraded if the damage is done to a critical infrastructure or government property.

Theft and Property Crime Prosecutions in Miami-Dade County

Theft and property crime prosecutions in Miami-Dade County are pursued aggressively and often rely on surveillance footage, witness identification, forensic evidence, or electronic tracking data. Early investigation and strategic review of evidence — including valuation disputes and intent challenges — are critical to protecting rights and challenging the State’s case.