Petit Theft
Petit theft is a misdemeanor offense in the State of Florida. It is basically shoplifting, or retail theft. However, the taking of any property is considered theft. What makes this "petit" (pronounced petty) theft is the value of the property.
It is a second-degree misdemeanor if you take the property of another valued at less than $100. A second-degree misdemeanor is punishable by a maximum of 60 days in jail, 6 months probation, and a $500 fine.
It is a first-degree misdemeanor if you take the property of another valued at more than $100 but less than $300. A first-degree misdemeanor is punishable by a maximum of 364 days in jail, 1 year of
probation, and a $1000 fine.
It is also a first-degree misdemeanor if you have a prior conviction for petit theft. So even if it is alleged that you stole $50 in property, you can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor if you have a prior conviction for petit theft.
Petit theft can lead to a physical arrest or a
promise to appear (PTA), depending on the circumstances. But make no mistake about it: a PTA is still considered an arrest.
If you have no prior record, you may be able to enroll in PTD. Conditions of PTD for petit theft cases are usually anti-theft or values courses, community service hours, and
restitution, if the alleged victim claims that his or her property was either not returned or was damaged.