2 Correctional Officers Arrested for Grand Theft After Stealing from Walmart

When you think of people committing theft crimes, you probably do not think of correctional officers. Correctional officers work in law enforcement and oversee those who have been arrested and are awaiting trial.

Ironically, two correctional officers have been arrested after stealing from various Walmart stores throughout Bay County. The 20-year-old man and 32-year-old woman have been charged with multiple counts of grand theft after being investigated by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.

On August 17, deputies were called to the Callaway Walmart for a reported theft. The suspects had taken off in a white Hyundai Sonata. Deputies were able to track down the vehicle with the help of Flock cameras, which use automated license plate reading surveillance systems.

Once deputies were able to locate the Hyundai, they pulled over the car on Highway 77 near Highway 388. Security footage confirmed that the two people inside the vehicle were involved in the theft. They were arrested and taken into custody. It was later discovered that both suspects are Florida state correctional officers.

Authorities learned the theft was connected to a larger operation throughout Bay County. The woman admitted that she and the man had been traveling to Bay County for about three weeks. They would visit various Walmart locations throughout Callaway, Lynn Haven, and Panama City and steal LEGO sets and Magic: The Gathering trading cards from the stores.

At least $3,000 in stolen merchandise was found inside the car. However, not all was taken from the Callaway Wal-Mart. The case is still under investigation and it is possible that the two suspects could face additional charges.

Grand Theft in Florida

In Florida, grand theft generally means unlawfully taking someone else’s property when its value meets the threshold for felony theft. Unlike petit theft, grand theft is a felony that can carry a lasting criminal record.

Under Florida law, the severity of a grand theft charge generally depends on the value and type of property involved:

• Third-degree grand theft: Property valued at $750 or more but less than $20,000. This is generally a third-degree felony.
• Second-degree grand theft: Property valued at $20,000 or more but less than $100,000. This is generally a second-degree felony.
• First-degree grand theft: Property valued at $100,000 or more, or theft involving certain aggravating circumstances. This is the most serious level.

Depending on the degree of the offense, a conviction can result in:

• Third-degree felony: Up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine
• Second-degree felony: Up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
• First-degree felony: Up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine

Contact Us Today

Stealing thousands of dollars of merchandise from a store is a serious crime that can easily be elevated from a misdemeanor to a felony. A person can face prison time and hefty fines.

A Fort Myers grand theft attorney from Hollander & Hanuka can assist you. We have experience handling these cases and are dedicated to protecting your legal rights. Fill out the online form or call (239) 332-3300 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

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