Last updated November 2025
In Florida, theft charges get more serious the higher the value of the property taken. If the amount is high enough, what might have been a misdemeanor quickly becomes a felony — and with it, the risk of prison time and a permanent record.
Here’s what you need to know about the grand theft amount in Florida, and what to do if you’ve been arrested or charged.
📜 What Is the Grand Theft Threshold in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft becomes grand theft — a felony — when the value of the property taken is $750 or more.
📊 Charge Levels by Amount:
| Value | Charge | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Under $100 | Petit Theft (2nd Degree Misdemeanor) | Up to 60 days jail |
| $100–$749 | Petit Theft (1st Degree Misdemeanor) | Up to 1 year jail |
| $750–$19,999 | Grand Theft (3rd Degree Felony) | Up to 5 years prison |
| $20,000–$99,999 | Grand Theft (2nd Degree Felony) | Up to 15 years prison |
| $100,000+ | Grand Theft (1st Degree Felony) |
🧾 What Counts Toward the Value?
The total value can include:
Multiple items taken in a single event
Aggregated values over a 30-day period in certain retail theft cases
Market value at the time of the alleged offense (not original purchase price)
If the State inflates the valuation, you may be overcharged. We challenge that early.
🛡️ How We Defend Grand Theft Charges in Florida
At Michael White, P.A., we fight felony theft charges aggressively — often before they ever reach a jury.
🔹 Challenge the Value
We dispute inflated estimates, depreciation, and improperly calculated totals to drop the charge to a misdemeanor.
🔹 Lack of Intent
If the property was taken by mistake, confusion, or during a civil dispute, the case may not qualify as theft at all.
🔹 Return of Property
While not a full defense, returning the item may help with mitigation, diversion, or charge reduction.
🔹 First-Time Offender Programs
Many clients with no record are eligible for pretrial diversion or deferred prosecution programs — keeping your record clean.
✅ Why Clients Hire Michael White
✅ Former prosecutor with experience in felony theft litigation
✅ Skilled at getting charges dismissed or reduced early
✅ Trusted by professionals, students, and first-time offenders
✅ Known in Broward courts for aggressive, strategic defense
📞 Charged With Grand Theft in Florida? Let’s Talk.
A felony theft charge is serious — but not unbeatable. Don’t wait until it’s too late to fight back.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
💵 What’s the minimum amount for grand theft in Florida?
$750. Any theft valued at \$750 or more is charged as a felony under Florida law.
📄 Can multiple items be added together for a felony charge?
Yes. If the items were taken as part of a single scheme or event, their total value may be used to reach the $750 threshold.
📉 Can grand theft be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes — especially if the value is close to the line or the facts are weak. We often negotiate reductions to petit theft.
📂 Can I get a grand theft charge sealed or expunged?
If the case is dismissed or results in a withhold of adjudication, sealing may be possible depending on your history.
👨⚖️ Is shoplifting over $750 a felony in Florida?
Yes. Shoplifting goods worth \$750 or more may result in grand theft charges — a third-degree felony.