Tampa Retail Theft Lawyer
Charged with shoplifting in Tampa, Florida?
Under Florida Law, a person can be prosecuted with retail theft if they take possession of, or carry away, any merchandise, property or money from a retail store. Charges can also be pressed for removing labels, universal product codes, anti-theft devices, and price tags. Depending on the circumstances involved, defendants may face one of a number of various theft crime charges. The charges a district attorney will pursue will depend primarily on the value of the merchandise.
Committed by nearly every type of person, retail theft is a crime that many people tend to view as insignificant. This couldn't be further from the truth. Depending on the value of the merchandise and on a person's criminal history, convictions of shoplifting can net serious criminal penalties and life altering repercussions. If you or a loved one has recently been charged with a shoplifting offense, you need the experienced and aggressive representation our Tampa criminal defense attorney can provide.
Types of Retail Theft Charges in Florida
Under Florida's theft statute § 812.014, a person accused of shoplifting may face charges and penalties that are categorized by degree.
- 2nd Degree Petit Theft: If the value of merchandise or property stolen is less than $100, defendants can be prosecuted for second degree petit theft. Penalties include misdemeanor convictions, up to 90 days in jail and up to $500 in fines
- 1st Degree Petit Theft: When the value of merchandise is more than $100 but less than $300, defendants face first degree misdemeanor charges, a maximum of one year in jail, and fines up to $1,000.
- Grand Theft: Grand theft is charged when merchandise or property is valued at more than $300. Defendants face either first, second or third degree charges, depending on the value stolen. Grand theft is a felony crime which can pose extensive fines and terms of imprisonment for as long as 5, 15, or 30 years.
Let Our Team Protect Your Future
The consequences of a criminal conviction can be life changing. Knowing full well how a criminal record can place severe limitations on personal lives and professional careers, our top notch Tampa criminal attorney works tirelessly to craft defense plans that deflect allegations and aim to have charges dropped or significantly reduced. If your case involves aggravating circumstances, such as prior criminal convictions, our team can fight aggressively to reduce your risk of suffering the maximum penalties.
As a former prosecutor with more than two decades of legal experience, Attorney Tim Hessinger knows how district attorneys attempt to gain convictions and we work to remain one step ahead. Protect your freedom and your future with a team of proven criminal defense lawyers.
Contact The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger to discuss your case;
call us at (813) 501-2688!