2 Friends Accused of Grand Theft for Stealing Bartender’s Golf Cart

Highlands County, FL. Our client was one of three individuals that left a lounge intoxicated through the back door, provoking a phone call to the police by the establishment’s manager. When an officer arrived at the establishment management reported that he had witnessed three men exiting the rear door, where two of the individuals (one being our client), drove off in a golf cart belonging to the Lounge. Our client was caught and arrested for Grand Theft.

Grand Theft in Florida

In Florida, Grand Theft is defined as the taking of property that is valued at $300 or more in an intentional manner. It is considered a felony that can be charged in the first, second, or third degree.

First-degree felony charges result from property that was stolen that is valued at $100,000 or more. This is punishable by up to 30 years in prison with a fine as high as $10,000.

Second-degree felony charges result from property that was stolen that is valued at $20,000 up to $100,000. This will also be charged if there was any medical equipment that was taken that is valued at $300+, or any law enforcement equipment that is also valued at $300+ that was taken from an authorized emergency vehicle. Punishment for a second-degree felony includes up to 15 years in prison, up to 15 years of probation, and a fine of $10,000.

A third-degree felony is charged when the property is valued at $300 to $20,000. A firearm, a will, testament, or codicil, or a fire extinguisher also fall under this category if stolen. A stop sign, any commercially farmed animal, or any controlled substances will also be charged as a third-degree felony. Punishment for this includes up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a $5,000 fine.

Any degree of a felony will be placed on your criminal record, which can haunt you for the rest of your life. Each time you fill out a job application, you will need to check the box asking about any felony convictions. It may be hard to find employment due to this, and landlords may not want to rent to anyone that has been convicted. It will also be impossible to get financial aid if you have a felony listed on your record.

Attorney Services in Florida

If you have been accused of stealing or have been charged with Grand Theft, Musca Law Firm wants to hear from you. We have a knowledgeable team of attorneys that can assist you in having your charges either dropped completely or reduced greatly. We believe in your rights, and will work our hardest to ensure that fairness is brought to you. We offer a free consultation and have many defenses that can be used on your behalf.

Result: After careful negotiation with the State, we were able to get the Felony Grand Theft charges dropped!