Last updated November 2025
A simple shoplifting case in Florida can sometimes be charged as a felony — all depending on the value of the property. Knowing the theft threshold makes the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony conviction.
As a former prosecutor now defending theft cases across Broward and South Florida, I’ve seen how prosecutors push borderline cases into felonies — and how we fight back.
📜 The Current Florida Theft Threshold
Under Florida Statute §812.014, theft charges depend on the value of the property:
Petit theft (misdemeanor): Property under $750
Grand theft (felony 3rd degree): $750 – $20,000
Grand theft (felony 2nd degree): $20,000 – $100,000
Grand theft (felony 1st degree): $100,000+ or certain protected property (firearms, vehicles, controlled substances, etc.)
👉 Related: Theft & Fraud Defense in Florida
⚖️ Why the Threshold Matters
Felony vs. misdemeanor means the difference between jail and state prison
Permanent record — felonies cannot be sealed or expunged if adjudicated guilty
Collateral consequences — loss of civil rights, immigration issues, career impact
🛡️ Defense Strategies
Valuation disputes — Actual value is often less than claimed; depreciation, damage, or market value challenges can drop a charge from felony to misdemeanor.
Lack of intent to permanently deprive — Forgetfulness or misunderstanding ≠ theft.
Consent or ownership disputes — Especially in family or roommate conflicts.
Suppression of evidence — Illegal searches, unlawful detentions, or improper interrogations can knock out key evidence.
Diversion programs — Many first-time offenders can avoid a conviction altogether.
📣 Take Action Early
Felony theft charges can often be fought before filing. Early negotiation and evidence presentation may keep a case from ever being filed as a felony.
👉 Facing theft charges in Florida? Call today or a request a free consultation.
❓ FAQs
1) What is Florida’s theft threshold for felony charges?
$750. Anything above this can be charged as grand theft.
2) Can a felony theft be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes, if the value is successfully challenged or evidence is weak.
3) Are vehicles always grand theft?
Yes. Cars are automatically felony theft, regardless of value.
4) Can shoplifting be a felony?
Yes. If the property is worth $750 or more, it can be charged as grand theft.
5) Can theft charges be sealed or expunged?
Felony convictions cannot. Diversion or withholds may preserve eligibility.