If you have been charged with dealing in stolen property in Florida, then you may have a defense. Satisfactory explanation, or providing some sort of explanation as to how/why someone possessed the property, is a defense that is oftentimes successful when fighting dealing in stolen property cases. Even if you don’t think you have a defense, you should always speak to an attorney to make sure you have a full understanding of how the law applies specifically to your case. If you want to know more about satisfactory explanation or how to beat your dealing in stolen property case in Florida, then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.
In Florida, dealing in stolen property is defined under Florida Statute 812.019. A person commits dealing in stolen property when they buy or sell property that was known, or should have been known, to have been stolen.
*The act of purchasing property that someone knew was stolen does not constitute dealing in stolen property if there is no evidence that the person who bought the property ever intended to resell the property; however, that person can still be convicted of theft*
Dealing in stolen property is a second-degree felony, meaning it is punishable by up to 15 years in prison, or up 15 years of probation and a fine of up to $10,000 (you can also get a jail or prison sentence followed by probation, but the total length of the punishment cannot exceed 15 years). In addition to facing prison time, if you are adjudicated guilty of dealing in stolen property then you will lose constitutional rights and you’ll have to deal with many other collateral consequences.
Criminal convictions, especially convictions for theft related charges, carry severe consequences and can never be removed from your criminal record. If you are convicted of a felony you will lose your right to vote, your right to own firearms, and your ability to maintain certain business licenses. You can also lose your ability to receive financial aid, your ability to live in certain places and your ability to obtain a passport.
If you need an attorney who will advise you, fight for your rights, and do everything possible to protect your future, or if someone you know has been charged with dealing in stolen property in Florida and they need effective representation, then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.