Theft & Property Crimes

Dealing in Stolen Property

Section 812.019 of the Florida Statutes addresses the crime of dealing in stolen property, which involves engaging in the buying, selling, or trafficking of stolen goods.  Under Section 812.019, dealing in stolen property encompasses the following elements:

1. Buying, Selling, or Trafficking: This offense involves the act of purchasing, selling, transferring, distributing, or trafficking in stolen property. It includes both direct transactions and involvement in the facilitation of such transactions.
2. Knowledge or Reasonable Belief: To be charged with dealing in stolen property, the defendant must have knowledge or reasonable belief that the items being bought, sold, or trafficked are stolen. This requirement is crucial in establishing the criminal intent and culpability of the defendant.
3. Stolen Property: The statute covers a broad range of stolen property, including goods, merchandise, valuable items, personal belongings, or any other article that has been unlawfully taken or obtained through theft.

Florida’s criminal statute on dealing in stolen property imposes penalties on offenders. The severity of the penalties can vary depending on factors such as the value of the stolen property, the defendant’s criminal history, and the circumstances of the offense. Convictions can result in imprisonment, fines, restitution to the victims, and other court-ordered requirements.  

If you are facing charges related to dealing in stolen property, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a skilled criminal defense attorney. To discuss your situation and legal options, contact Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A. at 954-888-8833 for a confidential consultation.  We are here to prepare to conquer your case.

Burglary

Section 810.02 of the Florida Statutes addresses the crime of burglary, which involves the unlawful entry into a structure with the intent to commit a crime therein. Burglary is a serious offense that aims to protect the sanctity of private property and ensure the security and safety of individuals and their belongings.

Under Section 810.02, burglary encompasses various possibilities, including:

1. Burglary of a Dwelling: This offense involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a dwelling, such as a house, apartment, or other residential structure, with the intent to commit a crime. The dwelling must be designed to be occupied by people, even if it is temporarily unoccupied at the time of the offense.
2. Burglary of Conveyances: This offense pertains to unlawfully entering or remaining in a vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or other conveyance, including cars, trucks, boats, or trailers, with the intent to commit a crime. It includes both motorized and non-motorized conveyances.
3. Burglary of Structures other than Dwellings: This offense encompasses the unlawful entry or remaining in a structure, such as a commercial building, storage facility, or any other structure other than a dwelling or conveyance, with the intent to commit a crime.

The penalties for burglary offenses in Florida can vary depending on several factors, including the type of structure involved, whether the offense was committed with a weapon or a dangerous instrument, the presence of aggravating factors, and the defendant’s criminal history. Convictions for burglary can result in imprisonment, fines, restitution to the victims, and other court-ordered requirements.

It is crucial to understand that being charged with burglary requires a specific intent to commit a crime inside the structure. Defenses such as lack of intent or mistaken identity can be raised in a legal defense. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and seek the best possible outcome in your situation.

By providing this information, we aim to raise awareness about the Florida criminal statute of burglary and emphasize the importance of respecting others’ property rights. We encourage individuals to uphold the principles of lawfulness, respect for private property, and personal safety, fostering a secure and harmonious community for all.

Trespass

Section 810.08 of the Florida Statutes addresses the crime of trespass, which involves entering or remaining on another person’s property without lawful authority. Trespass laws aim to protect the rights of property owners and ensure the security and privacy of individuals and their premises.

Under Section 810.08, trespass encompasses various possibilities, including:

1. Trespass on Property: This offense involves entering or remaining on someone else’s property without permission or a legitimate reason. It applies to private properties, such as residences, businesses, or vacant land. Trespassing can occur by physically entering the property or refusing to leave when requested by the property owner or authorized individual.
2. Trespass on School Grounds: Trespassing on school grounds refers to entering or remaining on the premises of a school, including school buildings, playgrounds, or other designated areas, without lawful authorization. Trespassing on school grounds may involve heightened penalties due to the protected nature of educational institutions and the need to maintain a safe environment for students and staff.
3. Enhanced Penalties: In cases where trespassing occurs on certain protected public locations, such as schools, the law may impose enhanced penalties. These enhanced penalties reflect the seriousness of trespassing in areas where public safety and security are paramount. Offenders may face increased fines, longer periods of probation, or other court-ordered requirements.

The penalties for trespassing offenses in Florida can vary depending on the circumstances, the severity of the trespass, any prior criminal history, and whether aggravating factors are present. Convictions for trespassing can result in criminal charges, fines, probation, community service, or other sanctions deemed appropriate by the court.

It is crucial to understand that entering or remaining on someone else’s property without permission can have legal consequences. However, defenses such as mistaken belief of permission or lack of intent to trespass can be raised in a legal defense. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to navigate the complexities of trespass laws and protect your rights.

By providing this information, we aim to raise awareness about the Florida criminal statute of trespass and emphasize the importance of respecting others’ property rights and public safety. We encourage individuals to obtain proper authorization before entering private property and to adhere to designated rules and regulations in public locations, promoting a harmonious and secure community for all.

Criminal Mischief

Under Florida Statutes Section 806.13, misdemeanor criminal mischief encompasses a range of offenses involving intentional damage to property valued at less than $1,000. Whether you’re accused of vandalism, graffiti, or other acts of destruction, it is crucial to have a skilled defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and advocate for your rights.

When you choose our firm, we meticulously review the evidence, assess the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case, and develop a strategic defense plan to protect your interests. Our goal is to minimize the impact of the charges you’re facing and work towards the best possible outcome, whether it’s through negotiation, dismissal, or a favorable trial verdict.

Penalties for misdemeanor criminal mischief can include up to 60 days in jail, probation, fines, restitution to the victim, and community service.  Contact an experienced law firm today at 954-888-8833 to schedule a confidential consultation. Let us prepare to conquer your case and guide you to your legal destination. 

Disorderly Conduct

Section 877.03 of the Florida Statutes addresses the offense of disorderly conduct, which involves engaging in behaviors that disturb the peace and order in public places. Disorderly conduct laws aim to maintain public safety, prevent disturbances, and ensure the peaceful coexistence of individuals within the community.

Under Section 877.03, disorderly conduct encompasses various disruptive behaviors, including:

1. Fighting: Engaging in physical altercations or brawls in public places, which can lead to public disturbances, injuries, and property damage.
2. Public Intoxication: Being heavily intoxicated or under the influence of drugs in a public place, causing a disturbance, being a danger to oneself or others, or exhibiting disorderly behavior due to intoxication.
3. Disturbing the Peace: Acting in a manner that unreasonably disrupts the tranquility and order of public spaces. This may include excessively loud or disruptive behavior, using offensive or abusive language, or engaging in provocative acts that incite others.
4. Public Nudity: Exposing one’s private body parts in public view, which may cause alarm, offense, or disturbance to others.

The penalties for disorderly conduct in Florida can vary depending on the circumstances, the severity of the offense, any prior criminal history, and whether aggravating factors are present. Convictions for disorderly conduct can result in criminal charges, fines, probation, community service, or other sanctions deemed appropriate by the court.  Misdemeanor disorderly conduct for example involves engaging in disruptive behavior that disturbs the peace or poses a risk to public safety. Felony disorderly conduct involves engaging in more severe disruptive behavior that poses a serious threat to public safety or incites a riot. This offense includes actions such as violent conduct, inciting others to engage in violence, or creating a substantial risk of harm to others. Felony disorderly conduct is a more serious offense and carries harsher penalties. The prosecution must prove that the accused person knowingly and willfully committed disorderly conduct of a more severe nature. Felony disorderly conduct can result in substantial fines, probation, and potential imprisonment for more than one year.

When you face disorderly conduct charges, it is crucial to have a skilled defense attorney who will protect your rights and fight for your best interests. If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, contact Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A. at 954-888-8833 for a confidential consultation. Let us prepare to conquer your case and guide you to your legal destination.

Arson

Section 806.01 of the Florida Statutes addresses the offense of arson, which involves the intentional act of setting fire to property or structures. Arson laws aim to protect public safety, prevent property damage, and deter dangerous and destructive behavior.

Arson is a serious offense with severe penalties due to the potential harm it can cause to individuals, communities, and the environment. Under Section 806.01, the penalties for arson in Florida can be significant. The severity of the penalties depends on several factors, including the extent of property damage, the presence of aggravating factors, any injuries or fatalities caused by the fire, and the defendant’s criminal history.

If convicted of arson in Florida, the potential prison penalties are as follows:

1. Arson of a Structure or Dwelling: Arson of a structure or dwelling is a felony offense. A conviction for this offense can result in a prison sentence of up to life imprisonment.
2. Arson of Other Property: Arson of other property, such as vehicles or personal property, is also a felony offense. Depending on the circumstances, the penalties may include imprisonment for a term up to 30 years.

It is crucial to understand that arson is a grave offense that carries severe consequences. In addition to imprisonment, individuals convicted of arson may also face substantial fines, restitution to the victims for property damage, probation, and other court-ordered requirements.

If you are facing charges of arson, it is essential to seek immediate legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney. Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A. can provide guidance, protect your rights, build a strong defense strategy, and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case. If you or a someone you know are facing arson charges, contact Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A. at 954-888-8833 for a confidential consultation. 

Robbery, Sudden Snatching, Carjacking, Home Invasion

Section 812.13 of the Florida Statutes addresses the offense of robbery, which involves the unlawful taking of another person’s property through the use of force, violence, or the threat of force. Robbery laws aim to protect individuals from theft-related crimes and ensure public safety.

Robbery is a serious offense with severe penalties due to its inherently violent nature and the potential harm it can cause to victims. Under Section 812.13, the penalties for robbery in Florida can vary based on several factors, including the presence of aggravating factors, the use of weapons, injuries inflicted on victims, and the defendant’s criminal history.

If convicted of robbery in Florida, the potential prison penalties are as follows:

1. Robbery without a Weapon: Robbery committed without the use of a weapon is a second-degree felony offense. A conviction for this offense can result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years.
2. Robbery with a Deadly Weapon: Robbery committed with the use of a deadly weapon, such as a firearm or a knife, is a first-degree felony offense. The penalties for this offense can include imprisonment for a term up to life imprisonment.
3. Robbery with a Firearm: Robbery committed with the use of a firearm carries enhanced penalties. It is a first-degree felony offense, and if a firearm is discharged during the commission of the offense, the minimum prison sentence is 10 years and can be up to life imprisonment.

Carjacking:

Carjacking under Florida Statute § 812.133 is a specific form of robbery that involves the taking of a motor vehicle from another person by force, violence, or intimidation. In Florida, carjacking is considered a first-degree felony offense, punishable by a prison sentence of up to life imprisonment.

Home Invasion Robbery:

Home invasion robbery under Florida Statute § 812.135 occurs when individuals unlawfully enter a dwelling with the intent to commit robbery or other felonies while armed or causing fear of harm. Home invasion robbery is a first-degree felony offense in Florida, carrying penalties of up to life imprisonment.

Sudden Snatching:

Sudden snatching Florida Statute § 812.131 refers to the act of forcefully taking another person’s property, such as a purse or a wallet, from their immediate possession. It is considered a third-degree felony offense, punishable by imprisonment for up to 5 years.

It is crucial to understand that robbery, carjacking, home invasion robbery, and sudden snatching are serious crimes that threaten the safety and well-being of individuals. If you are facing charges related to any of these offenses, it is essential to seek immediate legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney.  Prepare to conquer your case and be led to your legal destination.  Contact us at 954-888-8833 for a confidential consultation.