A charge of theft or dealing in stolen property can have devastating consequences on your life. You may lose your job. It could affect your relationships. At Pallegar Law, P.A. we take your future very seriously and fight to make sure we obtain the best result on your case. If you have been charged or suspect you are being investigated for dealing in stolen property or theft in Sarasota call us today. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case and explain to you all of the options you have to resolve or fight your case.
Florida law defines theft as a crime that involves stolen property. This may sound obvious, however, there is a caveat. It is missing the element of direct knowledge that the merchandise was stolen. For example, if a crime occurs where you did not know the property was stolen, but should have known, the crime of theft may still apply. “Property” is defined as something of value, whether tangible or intangible. This includes if you eat at a local restaurant in Sarasota and leave the restaurant without paying the bill, or if you steal utility services.
If you possess any property that was recently stolen, it is assumed that you know or should know that is was stolen. If you buy or sell stolen property at a significantly lower price than its market value, then it is assumed that you know or should know that it was stolen.
Someone who regularly does business in used property (e.g. a pawn broker), who deals in property that has a name or phone number of a person other than the seller, will be charged with the crime of theft, having known or should have known that the property was stolen.
If you possess any motor vehicle that has had its ignition mechanism bypassed, it is assumed that you know or should know that it is stolen.
If you have been charged with any of the above crimes, contact an experienced and aggressive Sarasota theft lawyer, who will help you fight the charges and explore your options.
The crime of dealing in stolen property occurs when a person buys, sells, plans, or attempts to traffic in property that is known or should have been known to be stolen. If you plan, manage, oversee, organize, or initiate trafficking is a more serious crime, and you could be charged with a first-degree felony.
“Trafficking” is defined as the distribution, trading, or disposal of stolen property (that is, property that is known or should reasonably be known to be stolen). It could also be defined as the possession of stolen property with an intent to sell, distribute, or dispose of the property. If you have been charged with dealing in stolen property, it is important that you contact a knowledgeable attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A.
The punishments for dealing in stolen property and related crimes, are as follows: Dealing in stolen property is a second degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a large fine.
You cannot be charged or convicted of both grand theft and dealing in stolen property. If you or someone you know has been charged with theft or any other crime, contact an aggressive Sarasota theft attorney today for a free consultation. Contact Pallegar Law, P.A. at 813-444-3912 (Tampa) or 941-893-5816 (Sarasota).