In Florida, dealing in stolen property is a serious crime with significant legal implications. Understanding the definitions, penalties, and common defenses associated with this offense can provide crucial insights for anyone facing charges or interested in the legal landscape.
Hernando County Dealing in Stolen Property Attorney
If you or a loved one have been charged with dealing in stolen property, you may be facing thousands of dollars in reparations, in addition to jail time.
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Ashley Aulls, PLC can provide guidance and a strong defense against your theft case.
Ashley Aulls serves Hernando County, Sumter County, Citrus County, or the surrounding areas, including Spring Hill, Brooksville, Timber Pines, Homosassa Springs, Floral City, and Bushnell.
To schedule your initial case consultation and find out what The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. can do for your theft case, call (352) 593-4115 today.
Information Center
- Dealing in Stolen Property
- Common Penalties
- Common Defenses
- Additional Resources
- Hire a Dealing in Stolen Property Attorney in Hernando County
Definitions
Dealing in Stolen Property
Under Florida Statutes, dealing in stolen property is defined as the act of trafficking in stolen goods. Specifically, Florida Statute 812.019 addresses this crime. The statute prohibits knowingly selling, transferring, or otherwise dealing in property that one knows or should know is stolen.
In order to be convicted of dealing in stolen property, the court must prove:
- Knowledge or Reasonable Belief: The defendant must have had knowledge that the property was stolen, or the circumstances must have been such that a reasonable person would have known the property was stolen.
- Transaction: The defendant must have engaged in a transaction involving the stolen property, which could include buying, selling, or transferring ownership.
- Stolen Property: The property in question must be identified as stolen.
Common Penalties
The severity of the penalties for dealing in stolen property in Florida depends on the value of the stolen property and the specifics of the offense:
Third-Degree Felony
If the value of the stolen property is less than $300, dealing in stolen property is classified as a third-degree felony. Penalties for a third-degree felony in Florida include:
- Up to 5 years in prison.
- Up to 5 years of probation.
- A fine of up to $5,000.
Second-Degree Felony
If the value of the stolen property is $300 or more but less than $20,000, the offense is classified as a second-degree felony. Penalties for a second-degree felony include:
- Up to 15 years in prison.
- Up to 15 years of probation.
- A fine of up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony
If the value of the stolen property is $20,000 or more, or if the offense involves dealing in stolen property that falls into specific categories like firearms, the crime is classified as a first-degree felony. Penalties for a first-degree felony include:
- Up to 30 years in prison.
- Up to 30 years of probation.
- A fine of up to $10,000.
Common Defenses
If you are charged with stealing property, you have a few defenses available.
Lack of Knowledge
One of the most common defenses available is that you did not know and had no reason to believe that the property was stolen. If the defense can prove that the defendant acted in good faith and had no actual or constructive knowledge of the stolen nature of the property, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Lack of Intent
The prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to engage in transactions involving stolen property. If the defense can demonstrate that the defendant had no intent to deal in stolen property, this could be a valid defense. For example, if the defendant was an unwitting intermediary or had no knowledge of the stolen status of the property, this could mitigate the charges.
Property Not Stolen
Your attorney might argue that the property in question was not actually stolen. This could involve presenting evidence that the property was obtained legally and was not subject to theft claims. This defense requires thorough investigation and documentation to prove the legitimacy of the property.
Additional Resources
Theft Crimes in Florida – Read about other theft crimes in Florida on our theft page.
Hire a Dealing in Stolen Property Attorney in Hernando County
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Ashley Aulls, PLC can provide guidance and a strong defense against your theft case.
Ashley Aulls serves Hernando County, Sumter County, Citrus County, or the surrounding areas, including Spring Hill, Brooksville, Timber Pines, Homosassa Springs, Floral City, and Bushnell.
To schedule your initial case consultation and find out what The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. can do for your theft case, call (352) 593-4115 today.