• Florida has laws governing theft and stolen property.florida adventure image by feisty from Fotolia.com
  
  The state of Florida recognizes varying degrees of theft and provides specific statutes governing these crimes. In general, thefts are punishable by fines, probation or incarceration. In the state of Florida, both the value of the items stolen and the criminal history of the convict can determine the punishment.
  
  

General Definition

• Florida defines theft as when a person knowingly obtains, uses or attempts to obtain or use someone else's property. He must do this with the intent to either deprive that person of the right or benefit of that property, or appropriate the property to his own use or the use of anyone else not entitled to such use.
  
  

Grand and Petit Theft

• Florida law recognizes three categorizations of grand theft: first, second and third degree. In general, any theft of over $300, or a property valued at over $300, can be considered grand theft in at least the third degree. Any theft of property between $100 and $300 is considered petit theft and is usually punishable as a misdemeanor in the first degree. Misdemeanors bring with them punishment of up to 1 year in jail. Felonies, on the other hand, are punishable by more than a year in jail.
  
  

Dealing in Stolen Property

• In Florida, anyone who traffics in or attempts to traffic in stolen property (property they know or should know to be stolen) can be charged with dealing in stolen property. This is punishable as a second-degree felony, a crime punishable by up to 15 years' incarceration. Further, anyone who plans or organizes property theft or organizes its dealing can be charged with dealing in stolen property in the first degree. This crime carries with it a maximum penalty of 30 years' incarceration.
  
  

Habitual Offenders

• Florida also recognizes laws that impose stricter punishments on habitual or repeat offenders. Commonly referred to as the "three strikes" law, felons convicted of the same crime three times, or convicted of a felony within 5 years of a previous felony conviction, can have their sentences doubled or be sentenced to life.