Category: Criminal Offenses · Statute: F.S. 812.014(2)(c)6 · Source: Florida Legislature
Understanding Grand Theft Auto in Florida
In Florida, Grand Theft Auto is prosecuted under the state's general theft statute, Florida Statute Section 812.014. While standard grand theft charges typically require the stolen property to be valued at $750 or more, the theft of any "motor vehicle" is automatically classified as a third-degree felony, regardless of its actual monetary worth. This means stealing a low-value, older vehicle carries the same statutory classification as stealing a luxury car. To secure a conviction, the state must prove the defendant knowingly and unlawfully obtained or used another person's vehicle with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of their right to the property.
The definition of a "motor vehicle" under Florida law is broad, encompassing cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even recreational vehicles. Because the statute covers "temporary" deprivation, individuals can be charged with Grand Theft Auto even if they only intended to go for a "joyride" and return the vehicle later. The severity of the charge can escalate quickly depending on the circumstances of the theft. For example, if the defendant uses a stolen vehicle to cause more than $1,000 in property damage, or if they use the vehicle to facilitate another felony, the offense can be reclassified as a more severe second-degree felony with harsher penalties.
Bail and Pretrial Release for Florida Vehicle Theft
Because Grand Theft Auto is classified as a felony in Florida, individuals arrested for this offense are typically booked into a county jail and must secure pretrial release. Judges setting bail for vehicle theft offenses will closely examine the defendant's prior criminal record, particularly any history of grand theft, burglary, or failure to appear in court. Under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code, a Grand Theft Auto charge is scored as a Level 4 offense, which can influence the prosecutor's bond arguments. If the vehicle was stolen using force, the state may charge the defendant with carjacking under Section 812.133, which is a first-degree felony punishable by life, often resulting in a much higher bond or a "no-bond" status at the initial first appearance hearing.