Complaint False Arrest For Shoplifting In Palm Beach
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In 2024, Florida amended its retail theft statute to broaden what constitutes a felony-level offense. This was done by extension of the period of time within which prosecutors can add up the value of separate thefts to aggregate a felony. The period is now 120 days, up from 30 days under the prior law.
False accusations are serious offenses and come with severe penalties. Under Florida Statute Section 817.49, the penalty for a first offense in Florida can be up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine; a second offense penalty can be up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Shoplifting items valued under $100 is considered petit theft in the second degree, a second-degree misdemeanor. Penalties include up to 60 days in jail, fines up to $500, community service, and possible restitution. First-time offenders may qualify for alternative sentencing, such as diversion programs.
Petit Theft (First Degree): Property between $100 and $750, up to 1 year in jail. Grand Theft (Third Degree): Property between $750 and $20,000, up to 5 years in prison. Grand Theft (Second Degree): Property between $20,000 and $100,000, up to 15 years in prison.
To succeed in a wrongful arrest claim in Florida, the plaintiff (the person who has been detained or arrested by law enforcement) must prove the following elements: The defendant (the law enforcement agency or officer) intentionally or recklessly detained the plaintiff.
Before you make a complaint, gather any documentation about the sale of the product or service first. These documents can include: Sales receipts. Warranties.
To report a crime, please contact your law enforcement agency or the agency that covers the jurisdiction in which the crime occurred. If you have a complaint involving misconduct by a public official or know of an election law violation, you may report that in writing to the this office.
Citizens with general inquiries, or who want to file a consumer complaint, should contact the Office of Citizens Services by calling (866) 966-7226, (850) 414-3990 or filing out an online form here.
Citizens with general inquiries, or who want to file a consumer complaint, should contact the Office of Citizens Services by calling (866) 966-7226, (850) 414-3990 or filing out an online form here.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Division of Consumer Services is the state's clearinghouse for consumer complaints, information and protection.
