Felony theft in Florida is defined by two main factors: the value of the property stolen and the type of item taken. Florida law treats theft charges seriously, and crossing the felony threshold means you could face prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Here’s what qualifies as felony theft under Florida law—and what you should do if you’ve been accused.
🔹 The Legal Definition
Florida Statute § 812.014 defines theft as knowingly obtaining or using another person’s property with the intent to:
Deprive them of it permanently, or
Use it for your own purpose without their permission
When the value is high enough, or the property is considered serious in nature, the crime becomes a felony.
🔹 When Does Theft Become a Felony in Florida?
| Degree | Value or Circumstance | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Third Degree Felony | $750–$19,999 | Up to 5 years prison + $5,000 fine |
| Second Degree Felony | $20,000–$99,999 | Up to 15 years prison + $10,000 fine |
| First Degree Felony | $100,000+ or cargo theft | Up to 30 years prison + $10,000 fine |
💡 Important: Stealing certain types of property—like a firearm, vehicle, or medical equipment—may automatically elevate the charge to a felony, regardless of value.
🔹 Examples of Felony Theft
Shoplifting $800 worth of merchandise from a retail store
Stealing a laptop from a shared apartment
Taking jewelry during a breakup
Grabbing someone’s phone during a confrontation
Even small items can trigger felony charges depending on the situation or value.
🔹 Is Intent Required?
Yes. The State must prove you intended to deprive the rightful owner of their property. Accidental possession or mistaken ownership is not felony theft.
🔹 Can Felony Theft Charges Be Reduced?
✅ Absolutely. Your attorney can:
Challenge the value of the property
Show lack of intent
Negotiate restitution-based resolutions
Push for withhold of adjudication or diversion
✅ Why This Definition Matters
Understanding how Florida defines felony theft gives your attorney a strategic edge. From fighting the classification to negotiating a lesser offense, knowing where the State’s case is vulnerable can make the difference between a felony conviction—or walking free.
📞 Accused of Felony Theft in Florida?
📞 Call now for a free case review. We’ll explain your options and help you avoid life-altering consequences.
🙋♂️ What People Ask About Felony Theft in Florida
Q1: What is the felony theft threshold in Florida?
💰 Theft of \\\\$750 or more becomes a felony in Florida.
Q2: Does intent matter in felony theft?
🧠 Yes. The State must prove you intended to permanently deprive the owner.
Q3: Can stealing from a roommate be felony theft?
📦 Yes—if the item is worth over $750 or fits certain protected categories.
Q4: Will I go to jail for felony theft?
⚖️ Possibly—but many cases are reduced, dismissed, or diverted with early legal intervention.
Q5: What’s the difference between felony theft and grand theft?
🧾 Grand theft is a form of felony theft, based on value or item type, and is divided by degrees.