Sarasota Theft Crime Lawyer
Experienced Defense in Sarasota County
Theft is typically the crime of taking property from another party without appropriate consent and with the intent to keep it permanently. Merely attempting to take something in such a manner and not succeeding can be considered theft in Florida State law. It is in this gray area that theft charges may be contested, as criminal intent is not always clear or even present when an item is unduly taken from another. Additionally, if you are being charged with a theft crime, the accusing party or prosecutor would have to provide evidence that proves you were trying to keep the item permanently.
Rather than attempting to defend yourself with these legalities, the right choice is to retain an experienced Sarasota criminal defense lawyer to do the legwork for you. At the Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC, we have a focus on criminal defense cases that have yielded us an impressive track record of success.
Have you been charged with a theft crime? Call The Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC, today at (941) 564-5319 or contact us online to meet with our Sarasota theft crime attorney!
What are the Penalties for Petit Theft?
Each state has its own considerations when it comes to defining the severity of a theft crime, and Florida has two main divisions:
- Petit theft: If a stolen item is valued under $100, as typically the case in items taken through shoplifting, Florida courts define it as petit theft. Punishments for petit theft cannot exceed more than one year of jail time and more than $1000 in fines. Under certain circumstances, items valued under $300 may be considered as petit theft.
What are the Penalties for Grand Theft?
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Grand theft: Items valued over $300, or any amount of a controlled substance (§ 812.014.), stolen constitute grand theft in the state of Florida, and can carry penalties of up to 30 years prison time and $10,000 in fines. It should be noted that an item with a value between $100-300 that is stolen from someone's private household can be considered as grand theft.
Can You Get Probation for Grand Theft?
You can get probation for grand theft. While on probation a person must meet specified requirements, such as meeting regularly with a probation officer, finding or maintaining employment, paying all fines and restitution within a certain amount of time, and not stealing anything else or committing any more crimes. Probation will usually last for a year and three year sentences or more is possible.
Let Our Criminal Defense Attorney Help You
If you feel a $1000 punishment is far too excessive for the crime of stealing a $20 item, you are not alone. Our professional team of associates at The Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC has an authentic and passionate drive to defend those charged with criminal offenses. We know that one mistake shouldn't mean the end of your wellbeing, and that the legal system can seem unfairly stacked against the accused. We encourage you to schedule a free 30-minute case review today and begin taking the right steps to defend yourself in court.
Contact The Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation!

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Recent Case Results
A Firm Backed by a Proven Track Record
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Aggravated Battery Dismissed
Client was charged with Aggravated Battery (a 2nd-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison) that occurred at a public park. He was accused of striking an individual and breaking his jaw. Police were called...
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Carrying a Concealed Firearm Charge Dropped
Client was confronted by law enforcement regarding an outstanding warrant on an unrelated charge. She was in possession of a backpack with a purse on the inside. Search incident to arrest...
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Criminal Use of Personal Identification Information Full Acquittal
Client was accused of using personal identification information of third person for purposes of harassment. The Client was put on trial and the State introduced evidence of the alleged offense...
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Domestic Battery Dismissed
Client was accused of battering her boyfriend during a custody exchange. During the investigation...
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Domestic Battery Case Dismissed
Client was charged for a physical altercation with his wife. Upon further investigation by the defense time, we were able to show the prosecution, that it the client was acting in self-defense...
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DUI Property Damage Case Dismissed
Single car accident that took place on an exit ramp from a major interstate. Client was headed home from a social gathering in a steady rain lost control and hit a tree. Deputies arrived...
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Felony Driving Under the Influence - 3rd DUI Incarceration Avoided
Client was stopped in the middle of an off ramp from a major highway. Sheriff’s deputies made contact and through their investigation were able to establish probable cause for...
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Misdemeanor DUI Charge Reduced
Client was coming home from an evening with friends. He was pulled over by a member of the DUI Wolfpack for alleged speeding. Upon activation of the overhead emergency lights, the Client...
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Stolen Property, Providing False Information, and Misdemeanor Violation of Probation Charges Dropped
Client was charged with Dealing in Stolen Property for allegedly stealing and selling his girlfriend’s laptop computer. While investigators successfully obtained the necessary documentary...
