Many people consider shoplifting a minor crime and usually associate it with teenagers stealing clothing or candy bars. However, the U.S. retail industry estimates up to $50 billion in merchandise is lost each year by retailers, who take it very seriously. In Florida,...
Theft & Property Offenses
Theft comes in many forms
Many people have preconceived notions of what theft looks like. They imagine someone shoplifting a candy bar from the store or stealing money from the bank. However, those are just two forms of theft. In reality, theft has a wide variety of meanings, ranging from...
Types of theft crimes in Florida
Most crimes that involve stolen property fall under the theft laws in Florida. The state distinguishes between petty theft and grand theft based on the value of the stolen items. Review the definitions of and possible penalties for Florida theft-related crimes. ...
Components of larceny
Larceny is a type of theft and one of six different types of property crimes. For authorities to lawfully charge an individual with larceny, there are certain components to the alleged crime that must be present. If the components of larceny are not present, it does...
Wal-Mart extorting those it suspects of shoplifting
You’ve been there hundreds of times, it’s just another trip to Wal-Mart. You pick up what you need and check out at a self-service register. Suddenly, an intimidating security officer steps in front of you and accuses you of not paying for everything. You’re only...
You could lose your gun rights without a weapons offense charge
It would be hard to deny that gun laws are important in the United States. The right to bear arms—as the Founding Fathers put it—is intrinsic to our legal system. Despite being a right of all Americans, the number of ways you could lose your firearm privileges might...
Theft by finding: an examination of Florida law
You’re walking down the beach at sunset, when all of the sudden you feel foot kick something hard. You look down and notice a pair of Rat-Ban sunglasses in pristine condition. You look around and, seeing no one to claim them, take them for yourself. Lucky you!...
What’s considered “grand theft” in Florida may surprise you
When you hear the word "grand theft," thoughts of an elaborate car theft or jewelry heist may spring to mind. However, in Florida, even taking low-value items can be considered grand theft--which is a felony offense with severe consequences. For example, let's say...
Study indicates racial bias among judges granting bail
If you’re arrested, the court will make certain—somewhat subjective—judgements on your character. If the judge considers you to be an extremely low-risk defendant—e.g., you have no previous criminal record, and your arrest was for a minor crime—they may release you...
What should you do if you’re facing vandalism charges?
Vandalism is a serious crime that damages property that does not belong to you. It includes a range of crimes such as graffiti writing, egging vehicles, breaking windows or even destroying someone's webpage. Vandalism has a number of potential penalties depending on...