Under the Florida Uniform Crime Reports program, larceny is defined as “the unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property from the possession or constructive possession of another person.” In this definition, constructive possession refers to the ownership a person has over property that may not be directly under his or her control at the time. An example of this is your car parked in your driveway. You own the car but you are not directly controlling it when it is parked in your driveway.
The crime report manual under the Florida Department of Law Enforcement goes on to list various types of larceny such as:
- Shoplifting
- Picking pockets
- Snatching purses
- Stealing items from motor vehicles
- Stealing auto parts
- Stealing bicycles
- Stealing from buildings
- Stealing from coin-operated machines
Essentially, larceny is theft. It differs from burglary in that breaking and entering into a residence or building does not factor into it. It differs from robbery in that it does not involve the use of or threat of force against victims.
Theft Laws in Florida
Since larceny is another term for theft, it can involve the stealing of almost any type of property or item from another. In Florida, it is divided into two major categories consisting of grand theft and petty theft. The value of the property stolen will determine how you are charged and the penalties you will face.
Petty theft of property valued under $100 is charged as a second-degree misdemeanor carrying up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
Petty theft of property valued between $100 and $750 is charged as a first-degree petty theft misdemeanor carrying up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Third-degree grand theft consists of stealing property valued between $300 and $19,999. Stealing a firearm or a vehicle is also considered third-degree grand theft. It is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Second-degree grand theft is a felony consisting of stealing property valued between $20,000 and $99,999. It carries up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
First-degree grand theft is a felony in which the stolen property is valued at $100,000 or more. It is punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
The collateral damage to a larceny conviction is that this offense carries the stigma of dishonesty that can make obtaining future employment difficult. It may also diminish your chances to rent an apartment or qualify for other life opportunities. Your conviction can be easily discovered on a background check by a potential employer, landlord, or any other individual or group.
Arrested for Theft In or Around Miami?
If you have been charged with any type of theft, it is in your best interests to bring in a reputable and proven criminal defense lawyer. At Hubbs Law Firm, we can provide guidance on what you are facing, its potential consequences, investigate all aspects of your arrest, and build your defense. Our team has the knowledge, experience, and resources you need to fight with determination and diligence for the most favorable outcome possible.
Contact us at (305) 570-4802 to schedule a free consultation about your case today.
Disclaimer:
Please note that by reading this blog you are not entering into an attorney-client relationship with Hubbs Law, P.A. This blog only provides general legal information. Every case is unique and you should request a consultation to ensure that you are getting the correct legal advice for your specific case.