Last updated November 2025
Not all thefts are created equal. In Florida, grand theft is a more serious offense than petit theft, carrying felony consequences that can include prison and a permanent criminal record.
So what exactly is considered grand theft under Florida law?
π Florida Statute on Grand Theft
Under Florida Statute §812.014, theft is defined as knowingly obtaining or using someone elseβs property with the intent to deprive them of it.
It becomes grand theft when the property taken meets certain thresholds or categories, such as value or type of item stolen.
βοΈ Degrees of Grand Theft in Florida
Grand Theft in the Third Degree (F.S. Β§812.014(2)(c)):
Property valued at $750–$20,000
Certain property types (firearms, motor vehicles, controlled substances, stop signs, or commercially farmed animals)
Penalty: Up to 5 years prison and $5,000 fine
Grand Theft in the Second Degree (F.S. Β§812.014(2)(b)):
Property valued at $20,000–$100,000
Cargo valued under $50,000
Penalty: Up to 15 years prison and $10,000 fine
Grand Theft in the First Degree (F.S. Β§812.014(2)(a)):
Property valued at $100,000 or more
Cargo valued at $50,000 or more
Penalty: Up to 30 years prison and $10,000 fine
π¨ Examples of Grand Theft
Stealing a car valued over $750
Shoplifting expensive electronics or jewelry
Taking construction equipment worth thousands
Stealing cargo shipments from trucks or warehouses
π‘οΈ Defenses to Grand Theft in Florida
A criminal defense lawyer may argue:
Mistaken identity β wrong person accused
Lack of intent β no intent to permanently deprive the owner
Ownership or consent β belief you had the right to the property
Valuation disputes β arguing the propertyβs value falls below grand theft thresholds
π Arrested for Grand Theft in Florida?
Grand theft is a felony that can impact your freedom and your future. The right defense can mean reduced charges, diversion, or even dismissal.
π Contact an experienced Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer to fight your theft charges today.
β FAQs: Grand Theft in Florida
βπ° What is considered grand theft in Florida?
Theft of property valued at $750 or more, or specific categories of property like cars, firearms, or cargo.
ββοΈ What statute covers grand theft in Florida?
Florida Statute §812.014.
βπ What are the penalties for grand theft?
Yes, depending on valuation disputes, lack of intent, or plea negotiations.
βπ‘οΈ Can grand theft charges be reduced?
Depending on the degree: 5, 15, or 30 years in prison, plus fines up to $10,000.
βπ¨ Is grand theft always a felony?
Yes — unlike petit theft, grand theft is always charged as a felony in Florida.