Stealing Pets in Fort Myers: What Are the Penalties?

Florida has taken a strong stance against abuse and cruelty toward animals. The Sunshine State also has very strict environmental conservation laws. How could this affect you if you steal a pet, livestock, or a wild animal? Will you face simple theft charges in Fort Myers? Or might you face additional penalties due to the “living” aspects of the stolen property? This might be something worth discussing with a defense attorney, especially if you’re already facing charges.

Some Pets Are Extremely Rare and Valuable

First, you should know that the consequences for theft generally depend on the value of the stolen property. In this context, the “property” is a living animal. As a result, you may face higher penalties depending on the rarity/value of the pet in question. For example, certain dogs can be worth tens of thousands of dollars. High-value breeds include Samoyeds, Chow Chows, and Tibetan Mastiffs.

Let’s assume you stole a puppy worth $10,000. In this case, you would face a third-degree grand theft charge. This is a felony, and it can lead to up to five years in prison. Other types of pets, including exotic birds, monkeys, and Savannah Cats, can sell for more than $20,000. If you stole a pet worth more than $20,000, you could face second-degree grand theft charges and a prison sentence of up to 15 years.

You Might Face Animal Cruelty Charges

If the courts interpret the theft as a form of animal cruelty, you could face additional, separate penalties under Florida’s animal cruelty laws. For example, the animal you stole might have died while in your possession. Perhaps it suffered “unnecessary pain or suffering” during the theft. In Florida, animal cruelty is a first-degree misdemeanor (the most serious type of misdemeanor). It can also lead to fines of tens of thousands of dollars.

You Could Also Face Charges for Poaching

You might also face a poaching charge if you steal an endangered type of animal. You can face this charge even if you “steal” a wild animal that is not owned by anyone in particular. Florida has taken a strict stance against animal poaching, and it has numerous exotic animals that might attract illegal traffickers. Animals that are particularly vulnerable include flying squirrels, alligators, and certain types of turtles. Poaching is a serious offense, punishable by several years in prison and hefty fines.

Can a Fort Myers Theft Defense Attorney Help Me?

If you face allegations of stealing an animal, simple theft charges may only represent one aspect of your criminal penalties. You might also face additional charges for animal cruelty, poaching, and so on. The value of the animal is only one thing to keep in mind as you assess your potential penalties. For more targeted guidance, contact The Foley & Wilson Law Firm today. Our experienced theft defense lawyers in Fort Myers can help you get started with a defense strategy.

Sources: 

prudentpet.com/most-expensive-dog-breeds/

flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2021/783/Analyses/h0783z1.CRM.PDF