Lego Theft in Florida
Toy stores all around Florida carry Lego and Winter Haven is home to LEGOLAND resort and water park. Children and adults alike are fans of these popular toys and collectible sets.
Believe it or not, Lego theft is a common problem in Florida – and there will be more consequences to getting caught than you might expect. Just because you were not caught while you were in the store does not mean you cannot be charged – security camera footage could be used to issue an arrest warrant if you are positively identified.
The consequences of a conviction can include fines and jailtime – not to mention the social stigma associated with stealing, which can lead to difficulties in obtaining housing and employment. Anyone in Florida who is under investigation for Lego theft should call an experienced theft defense attorney today for a free consultation. Your reputation and your livelihood may depend on getting quality representation as you answer to these charges.
Florida Laws Relating to Lego Theft
Lego pieces are popular, collectible, and often quite expensive – even when they come in a relatively small box. But just because the box is small does not mean the criminal charge associated with its theft will be, too. Florida law categorizes theft by the value of the stolen property, not its size. An experienced shoplifting lawyer could advise you as to the full range of applicable laws and penalties, but there are a few you should know about.
Florida Statute § 812.014, for example, prohibits petit theft, which is defined as theft of property worth $750 or less. It is a first-degree misdemeanor that can lead to up to a year in jail. Grand theft is defined as theft of property valued at $750 or more and is a third-degree felony charge that can lead to up to five years in prison. Anyone who is caught dealing in stolen property face a second-degree felony charge that can result in up to 15 years in prison.
Building a Defense
One way a lawyer could help a client charged with Lego theft is by building a case in their defense. This could involve challenging the government’s evidence, such as any photos or video footage or witness statements, which often serves as the lynchpin of the prosecution’s case. It could also involve questioning the value of the property at issue, in order to have a charge reduced or dropped.
When necessary or advisable, an experienced Lego theft lawyer could negotiate with prosecutors for a diversion program, such as the Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI) or the Theft Diversion Program. These programs allow offenders to complete a program of community service, counseling, and other requirements in exchange for their charges being dropped, avoiding marks on their criminal records.
Dealing With the Prosecution
Where a diversion program is not available, an experienced lawyer could negotiate with prosecutors for a plea deal, resulting in reduced charges in exchange for a guilty plea. Depending on your prior criminal history, it may not be possible to drop a charge from a felony to a misdemeanor, for example. This is especially true for a first offense.
A lawyer could develop a defense strategy built around the details of your case. It is important to recognize the consequences of a conviction; beyond prison time and fines, the damage to one’s reputation from a theft conviction can lead to a social stigma, as well as difficulties in finding housing and employment.
Call a Florida Lego Theft Lawyer Today
Anyone in Florida facing Lego theft charges should call an experienced defense lawyer today for a free consultation. You need to do all you can to protect your reputation and livelihood.
Do not try and face the legal system on your own, especially when a felony or misdemeanor theft conviction could result. The stakes are too high to risk a rookie mistake in your defense.
