Last updated December 2025
Updated for 2025 – Understanding Felony Theft in Florida
If you’ve been accused of stealing property worth $750 or more, you may be charged with grand theft under Florida law — a felony offense that can carry years in prison and a permanent criminal record.
Understanding Florida’s grand theft statute, what the State must prove, and how these cases are defended is essential to protecting your future.
⚖️ Florida Statute § 812.014 – The Grand Theft Law
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft occurs when a person:
Knowingly obtains or uses another person’s property
With intent to:
Permanently deprive them of it, or
Use the property without authorization
It becomes grand theft when the value or type of property meets certain statutory thresholds.
Intent is a key element — and one of the areas we most often challenge.
📋 Degrees of Grand Theft in Florida (2025)
| Degree | Value of Property | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Degree Felony | $750–$19,999 | 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine |
| 2nd Degree Felony | $20,000–$99,999 | 15 years in prison, $10,000 fine |
| 1st Degree Felony | $100,000+ or certain cargo theft | 30 years in prison |
👉 Related:
What Is Grand Theft in Florida?
👉 Related:
Petit Theft vs. Grand Theft in Florida?
🔍 Property That Commonly Triggers Grand Theft Charges
Grand theft can apply to items such as:
Construction tools and jobsite equipment
Designer handbags, electronics, and luxury goods
Catalytic converters or auto parts
Controlled substances
Florida law is broad — intent and value disputes frequently arise in these cases.
🔄 How We Challenge Grand Theft Charges
At Michael White, P.A., we look closely at the evidence, valuation, and the circumstances of the alleged theft.
💰 1. Valuation Disputes
Was the item really worth $750+ at the time?
Stores often use:
Full retail value instead of actual market value
Aggregated item totals
Inflated loss-prevention estimates
We challenge improper valuation evidence aggressively.
🧠 2. Intent to Steal
Many cases stem from:
Misunderstanding
Ownership disputes
Borrowed property
Wrong person accused (misidentification)
Scanning/self-checkout issues
Intent must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
🚗 3. Proof of Control or Possession
Constructive possession (especially in shared cars or residences) is frequently disputed.
👤 4. Witness Credibility Issues
Store security and civilian witnesses often make inconsistent statements.
🛡️ Possible Outcomes We Fight For
Depending on the evidence and your history, we may pursue:
Reduction to petit theft (misdemeanor)
Withhold of adjudication (protects sealing eligibility)
Diversion programs for first-time offenders
Full dismissal for lack of evidence or improper valuation
Felony theft should never be handled without an experienced defense strategy.
📞 Arrested Under Florida’s Grand Theft Statute?
We defend grand theft cases every day in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, and South Florida. A felony conviction can impact your freedom, career, and record — let us fight to protect you.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or request a free consultation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
⚖️ What is Florida’s grand theft statute?
⚖️ What is Florida’s grand theft statute?
Florida Statute § 812.014 defines theft and outlines when the value of property makes it a felony.
📈 What are the degrees of grand theft?
3rd Degree: $750–$19,999
2nd Degree: $20,000–$99,999
1st Degree: $100,000+ or special circumstances
💰 Can grand theft charges be reduced?
Yes. Many cases are reduced to petit theft by challenging valuation, possession, or intent.
🛠️ What defenses are available?
Disputed value
Lack of intent
Mistaken identity
Lawful ownership
Illegal stop or search
🔐 Will a grand theft conviction stay on my record?
Yes, unless the case is dismissed or you receive a withhold and qualify for sealing.