How to Find Information on the Penalty for Auto Theft in Florida

Florida is a hotbed for auto theft. With lots of urban areas, plenty of tourists and more people moving into the state, opportunities abound for car thieves. Even if you take appropriate precautions, your car could still be among the more than 1 million that will be stolen in the United States this year. Though only a small percentage of auto thefts result in an arrest, if your case is among those that do, you will want to get information on the penalty the thief who stole your car may face.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Computer
• Telephone

Instructions

1. Speak with a criminal law attorney with a license to practice in Florida if you need to defend yourself against an auto theft charge. Check with the American Bar Association for a referral (see Resources below). Note that if you can't afford an attorney, you have the right to retain a free public defender.

2. Find comprehensive information on the penalty for auto theft in Florida by reading the relevant state law (see Resources below). Title XLVI, Chapter 812 discusses various definitions of auto theft and outlines procedures for reporting it.

3. Know that in Florida, auto theft is usually classified as either grand theft in the second degree or grand theft in the third degree, depending on the worth of the vehicle. Typically, vehicles worth $20,000 or less are classified as third-degree grand theft.

4. Know that grand theft can carry at least 1 year of jail time for first offenders in Florida. However, other factors, such as additional offenses, aggravating or mitigating circumstances, can greatly affect the punishment.

5. Follow up with a group dedicated to supporting and assisting victims of crime in their journey through the legal system. One such organization is the National Center for Victims of Crime (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Putting a wheel lock device on your car when you are not in it is an effective deterrent for all but the most determined car thieves. A wheel lock prevents the car's steering wheel from being turned, so it cannot be driven. Get a wheel lock device from your local auto parts store and protect your car from auto theft.

• According to Florida law, the police must notify the owner of a recovered stolen vehicle within 72 hours. This is not necessarily the case in all states.

• Florida consistently rates as one of the top 10 states for auto theft in the nation. If you live in Florida, be particularly careful with your car. Keep it locked in your garage at night and only park in well-lit areas with plenty of other cars around when you go out.