Shoplifter Uses UPS Truck as Getaway Vehicle
When people steal from a store, they may have someone waiting for them outside in a getaway vehicle. Not many people cling onto the back of a random vehicle in hopes of fleeing the scene quickly, but that is what a Florida man did.
A man accused of attempting to shoplift at a Lowe’s in Palm Coast was arrested after authorities say he tried to flee the scene by clinging to the back of a UPS truck.
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a reported theft at Lowe’s after a suspect tried to steal nearly $1,500 in merchandise. Before officers arrived, the man reportedly ditched the items and ran.
Shortly afterward, a concerned citizen alerted authorities to a man riding on the rear of a UPS truck along Palm Coast Parkway. The UPS driver stopped and told the man to get off, which he did near Lupia Court.
Detectives tracked the man’s movements and confirmed he was the same individual involved in the attempted theft.
The suspect, identified as a 31-year-old man, was arrested and charged with grand theft. He is currently being held at a detention facility on a $15,000 bond.
What is Grand Theft in Florida?
If a person steals valuable items from a store, they may face grand theft charges. Grand theft in Florida is a felony crime defined under Florida Statutes §812.014, involving the unlawful taking of property valued above a certain threshold with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the rightful owner of it.
The key elements include intentional taking of someone else’s property without consent, with the intent to deprive the owner of the property.
There are several degrees of grand theft:
- Third-degree felony. This is the most common. It is based on the value of property: $750 to less than $20,000. Examples include stolen electronics, bicycles, or cash over $750. The penalties include up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Second-degree felony. This is when the value of the property is between $20,000 to less than $100,000. The penalties are up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- First-degree felony. A person can be charged with this crime if the value of the property is $100,000 or more, or theft involving cargo, use of a vehicle to commit the theft, or property damage. The penalties are up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Even first-time offenders can face serious consequences. Restitution, probation, and a permanent felony record can follow a conviction.
Contact Us Today
Shoplifting is not a minor crime. It is a common yet serious offense under Florida law.
Have you been arrested? Act quickly but don’t talk to the police. First you need to contact a Fort Myers shoplifting attorney from Hollander & Hanuka. We are prepared to protect your rights and help you achieve the most favorable outcome in the given circumstances. Schedule a consultation today by calling (239) 332-3300 or filling out the online form.
Source:
wtsp.com/article/news/regional/florida/florida-man-clings-ups-truck-lowes-shoplifting-attempt/67-26456647-3139-4a7b-89bf-9adbbabf7874
