A person commits theft when without permission knowingly obtains or uses the property of another with intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive that person of his property.

There are several ways to steal from another, such as by force (robbery) or by fraud. Or the simple taking of property of another. Shoplifting, Retail Theft and Larceny are common terms used for theft. Burglary is most often associated Theft Crimes.

Theft is usually defined as Grand Theft (Felony) or Petty Theft (Misdemeanor). There are varying degrees of Grand Theft depending on the value of the property, type of property such as an automobile, or the type victim, such as a senior citizen.

Petty Theft is generally defined as stealing of property whose value is less than $300.00, and is 2nd degree misdemeanor (Punishable up to 60 days in the County Jail) if you have no priors for any theft. If you have one prior theft charge and you commit a Petty Theft you will be charged with a 1st degree Misdemeanor (Punishable up to 1 year in jail) Even Petty theft will be treated as a felony (Punishable up to 5 years in State Prison) if you have two or more prior convictions for any theft.

Further, the court may suspend the driver’s license of anyone adjudicated guilty of theft. The Court will order the suspension of your driver’s license if you have prior convictions for theft crimes.

For further discussion on Dealing in Stolen Property click here .

Call Palm Beach attorney Steven M. Logan for defense of theft crimes at (561) 791-1882. Serving Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Ft. Pierce, Stuart and Glades County.