Grand Theft Generally

• Grand theft is defined by the value of property taken by the offender, with aggravating factors based on the type of property stolen or any damage caused during the theft. Grant theft in the first degree occurs when a person takes property valued at $100,000 or more or cargo valued at $50,000 or more that has entered the stream of interstate commerce. Grand theft in the second degree occurs when the property stolen is valued between $20,000 and $100,000.
  
  

Aggravating Factors

• Use of a motor vehicle in the course of a theft other than as a getaway that causes damage to property or causes damage to the property of another in excess of $1,000 is punished as a felony in the first degree. Theft of emergency medical equipment valued at $300 or more that is taken from a facility, aircraft or vehicle is treated as grand theft in the second degree.
  
  

Penalties

• Under Section 812.014 of the Florida Statutes, grand theft of the third degree is a felony of the third degree, punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to five years. Grand theft in the second degree is punishable as a felony of the second degree, punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 15 years. Grand theft in the first degree is punishable as a felony of the first degree, punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 30 years. Florida felonies range in severity from third-degree felony followed by second-degree felony, first-degree felony, life felony and capital felony.
  
  

Firearms, Wills, Stop Signs and Fire Extinguishers

• Certain dangerous instruments and important safety devices are covered regardless of value. Under 812.014 the theft of any firearm, regardless of actual value, is charged as grand theft in the third degree. This also includes the theft of a will or codicil, traffic stop signs and fire extinguishers.