Theft Crimes FAQs

1. What Is the Difference Between Petit Theft and Grand Theft?
2. What Are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?
3. Can I Go to Jail for a Theft Crime in Sarasota?
4. What Should I Do if I Am Charged With a Theft Crime in Sarasota?
5. Can I Be Charged With Theft If I Did Not Intend to Steal the Property?
6. Can I Be Charged With Theft for Shoplifting?
7. Is Identity Theft a Serious Crime in Sarasota?
8. What Are the Defenses to Theft Charges in Sarasota?
9. What Is the Statute of Limitations for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?
10. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Returned the Stolen Property?
11. What Is the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?
12. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Not Caught in Possession of the Stolen Property?
13. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Believed the Property Was Abandoned?
14. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Coerced Into Committing the Crime?
15. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol at the Time of the Offense?

1. What Is the Difference Between Petit Theft and Grand Theft?

Petit theft involves the theft of property valued at less than $750, and it is classified as a misdemeanor. Grand theft, on the other hand, involves the theft of property valued at $750 or more and is classified as a felony.

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2. What Are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?

The penalties for theft crimes vary depending on the specific offense, the value of the stolen property, and the defendant's criminal history. In general, theft crimes can result in fines, probation, community service, and imprisonment.

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3. Can I Go to Jail for a Theft Crime in Sarasota?

Yes, depending on the severity of the offense and other factors, theft crimes in Sarasota can result in jail time.

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4. What Should I Do if I Am Charged With a Theft Crime in Sarasota?

If you are charged with a theft crime in Sarasota, it is important to seek legal representation. An experienced criminal defense attorney at Pallegar Law, PA can help you understand your rights and options and work to defend you against the charges.

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5. Can I Be Charged With Theft If I Did Not Intend to Steal the Property?

In some cases, you can be charged with theft even if you did not intend to steal the property. For example, if you mistakenly take someone else's property believing it to be your own, you could still be charged with theft.

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6. Can I Be Charged With Theft for Shoplifting?

Yes, shoplifting is a form of theft and can result in criminal charges.

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7. Is Identity Theft a Serious Crime in Sarasota?

Yes, identity theft is a serious offense in Sarasota and can result in both criminal charges and civil liabilities.

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8. What Are the Defenses to Theft Charges in Sarasota?

Some common defenses to theft charges include lack of intent to steal, mistaken identity, and consent from the owner of the property. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine the best defense strategy for your case.

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9. What Is the Statute of Limitations for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?

The statute of limitations for theft crimes in Florida varies depending on the specific offense and the value of the stolen property. In general, the statute of limitations for felony theft crimes is generally between 3 to 5 years, while for misdemeanor theft crimes, it is typically 1 to 2 years.

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10. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Returned the Stolen Property?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft even if you return the stolen property. Returning the property may be a factor that is considered in your case, but it does not necessarily negate the criminal charges.

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11. What Is the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?

Theft involves taking someone else's property without their permission. Robbery, on the other hand, involves taking someone else's property through the use of force, violence, or threat.

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12. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Not Caught in Possession of the Stolen Property?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft even if you are not caught in possession of the stolen property. The prosecution may rely on other evidence, such as witness testimony or surveillance footage, to prove the theft.

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13. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Believed the Property Was Abandoned?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft even if you believed the property was abandoned. In Florida, to be considered abandoned, the property must be left in a place where it is likely to be discovered and with the intent to relinquish ownership.

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14. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Coerced Into Committing the Crime?

In some cases, coercion or duress may be a defense to theft charges. If you can show that you were forced or threatened into committing the theft, it may be possible to have the charges reduced or dismissed.

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15. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol at the Time of the Offense?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the offense. However, intoxication may be a factor that is considered in your case and may affect the severity of the penalties you face. Keep in mind voluntary intoxication is not a defense to a crime, however, involuntary intoxication maybe raised as an affirmative defense.

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These are just a few of the common questions people have about theft crimes in Sarasota, Florida. If you have specific questions about your case, it is important to consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney at Pallegar Law, PA by calling 941.893.5816 to schedule a free consultation.