When you think of “grand theft,” there is a good chance your mind goes to the popular video game Grand Theft Auto. These games may make grand theft look exhilarating, but here in the real world, these crimes are typically much less action-packed. Committing grand theft in the real world is also a lot more…
“Theft” is a broadly used term in Florida that covers a multitude of crimes, from high-profile embezzlement cases to minor shoplifting charges. However, one crime you may be surprised theft does not include in Florida is robbery. Although theft and robbery are frequently—and mistakenly—used interchangeably, both involve stealing, and both are considered property crimes in…
The coronavirus pandemic has spawned enormous changes from public health crises and disrupting schooling to economic distress and high unemployment. Perhaps one of the most fascinating shifts during the COVID-19 pandemic has been the fluctuation of crime. At the onset of the pandemic in early 2020, even before stay-at-home orders were issued in many places,…
Like robbery, carjacking is a criminal offense that can lead to life in prison if certain elements are met. Robbery covers many of the same elements as carjacking in Florida; the main difference is that carjacking is the taking of a motor vehicle specifically through force, violence, assault, or threats. As a victim, a carjacking…
As early as 1591 references to shoplifting were being made in England. Playwright Robert Greene wrote a pamphlet offering shoplifting advice, going as far as suggesting proper attire to avoid being detected. Shoplifting first became a serious problem in 17th-century England, when the exploding population of London pushed vendors who sold a variety of goods…
In Florida, mere possession of stolen property can lead to criminal charges. Property crimes like receiving, selling, possessing, or even disposing of stolen property carry heavy penalties that vary based on the value of the property involved. These crimes may be misdemeanor or felony offenses should the property reach a specific value. If you purchase…
Being detained in your favorite store for shoplifting can have significant consequences. If you are a suspected shoplifter, mall security will often try to coerce you into signing a statement admitting guilt. They may threaten to call police if you do not sign this piece of paper or they may try to force you to…
