Last updated November 2025
Think theft charges are minor? In Florida, stealing property over a certain dollar amount turns a misdemeanor into a felony — with serious consequences. The law doesn’t care whether it was a misunderstanding, a one-time mistake, or a shoplifting accusation.
Here’s what you need to know about the Florida felony theft threshold, and how we defend clients facing this charge.
📜 What Is the Felony Theft Threshold in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft becomes a felony when:
The value of the property stolen is $750 or more, or
The item taken falls into a special category (e.g., firearm, motor vehicle, stop sign, or law enforcement gear)
📊 Theft Charge Levels in Florida
| Theft TypeValueChargeMax Penalty | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Theft (2nd Degree) | <$100 | Misdemeanor | 60 days jail |
| Petit Theft (1st Degree) | $100–$749 | Misdemeanor | 1 year jail |
| Grand Theft (3rd Degree) | $750–$19,999 | Felony | 5 years prison |
| Grand Theft (2nd Degree) | $20,000–$99,999 | Felony | 15 years prison |
| Grand Theft (1st Degree) | $100,000+ | Felony | 30 years prison |
💡 The \$750 threshold is the line between misdemeanor and felony theft in Florida.
🛡️ How We Defend Felony Theft Charges in Florida
At Michael White, P.A., we know how to attack these cases early — before they become life-changing felonies.
🔹 Challenge the Value
We push back on inflated or inaccurate valuations. If the property was worth less than \$750, the felony charge may not hold.
🔹 Lack of Intent
The State must prove you knowingly and intentionally took something. Accidents, misunderstandings, or civil disputes are not crimes.
🔹 First-Time Offender Diversion
For clients with no prior record, we often negotiate pretrial diversion or reductions to misdemeanors.
🔹 Motive and Circumstances
Was it a necessity? A family dispute? A chaotic retail incident? Context matters — and we use it strategically.
✅ Why Clients Hire Michael White
✅ Former prosecutor with deep experience in felony theft prosecution and defense
✅ Track record of getting cases dropped, reduced, or diverted pretrial
✅ Strategic, aggressive courtroom advocacy
✅ Trusted by students, professionals, and families in South Florida
📞 Charged With Felony Theft in Florida? The Dollar Amount Isn’t the End of the Story.
A strong defense can mean the difference between prison and a second chance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
💵 What is the felony theft threshold in Florida?
$750. Anything valued at $750 or more is charged as a felony. Less than that is typically a misdemeanor.
📄 How is the value of the property determined?
The State uses fair market value at the time of the offense — not original purchase price.
📉 Can I get felony theft charges reduced?
Yes. With strong legal advocacy, felony charges are often reduced to misdemeanors or dismissed entirely.
📂 Can I seal or expunge a felony theft charge in Florida?
Possibly — if your case is dismissed or resolved without a conviction and you meet eligibility requirements.
👨⚖️ Is shoplifting a felony in Florida?
Yes — if the total value of the stolen items is \$750 or more, it may be charged as felony grand theft.