- Free Consultation: (813) 222-2220 Tap Here to Call Us
THEF2201 Grand Theft Motor Vehicle
Facing Grand Theft Auto THEF2201 Charges in Hillsborough County? Your Future is on the Line.
If you’ve been arrested and charged with Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (often designated as THEF2201) in Hillsborough County, Florida, under Florida Statute § 812.014, you’re facing a serious felony charge. This accusation means you’re accused of unlawfully taking or possessing someone else’s vehicle with the intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive them of it.
As W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., a seasoned criminal defense attorney serving Hillsborough County, I understand the profound impact a Theft accusation can have on your life. The consequences of a conviction can be severe, jeopardizing your freedom, financial stability, and future opportunities. At the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. (813-222-2220), we are dedicated to providing aggressive and strategic legal representation to individuals facing THEF2201 charges. If you are currently dealing with this situation, immediate action is crucial to protect your rights. Contact my office today at (813) 222-2220 for a confidential consultation and let us begin building your defense immediately.
Understanding Grand Theft Motor Vehicle Under Florida Law
Florida Statute § 812.014 outlines the elements the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a theft conviction. (Always consult the official Florida Statutes for the most up-to-date information). In cases involving a motor vehicle, the charge is specifically designated as Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (often designated as THEF2201). The value of the vehicle typically elevates this charge to a form of grand theft. In Florida, the theft of a motor vehicle is usually treated as a third-degree felony.
The Crucial Element of “Intent”
A crucial element the prosecution must prove in a Grand Theft Motor Vehicle case is your intent. Simply being in possession of someone else’s vehicle is not enough for a conviction. The prosecution must demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly obtained or used the vehicle with the intention to:
- Deprive the owner of their right to the vehicle or any benefit derived from it, even temporarily.
- Appropriate the vehicle for your own use or the use of someone not entitled to it.
The issue of intent can be complex and is often a key area of focus for a skilled defense attorney. Factors such as how the vehicle was obtained, the duration of possession, and the circumstances surrounding your apprehension can be critical in challenging the prosecution’s claim of intent.
Why Grand Theft Motor Vehicle is a Felony in Hillsborough County
In Florida, the theft of a motor vehicle is treated as a felony due to the inherent value and importance of vehicles in modern society. The potential for significant financial loss and disruption to the victim’s life justifies the more severe penalties associated with a felony conviction. Prosecutors in Hillsborough County take these charges seriously and will aggressively pursue convictions. This underscores the critical need for experienced legal representation.
Potential Consequences and Penalties
A conviction for Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (THEF2201) in Florida, typically classified as a third-degree felony, carries significant potential consequences:
| Consequence/Penalty Type | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Imprisonment | Up to 5 years in state prison, with the actual duration often influenced by sentencing guidelines and prior criminal history. |
| Fines | Up to $5,000, which can be imposed in addition to or instead of a prison sentence. |
| Probation | Up to 5 years, with specific conditions mandated by the court; violation of probation can lead to further penalties, including imprisonment. |
| Restitution | You may be required to pay restitution to the vehicle owner for any damages or losses incurred. |
| Criminal Record | A permanent felony conviction, which can negatively impact future employment, housing, loan applications, and educational opportunities. |
| Loss of Civil Rights | Potential loss of fundamental rights such as the right to vote, the right to possess firearms, and the right to serve on a jury, depending on Florida law regarding felony convictions. |
Building a Strong Defense: Potential Strategies
A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can explore all potential defenses, including:
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating you did not intend to steal the vehicle (e.g., you mistakenly took the wrong vehicle, or believed you had permission).
- Mistake of Fact: Showing you genuinely believed you had the right to possess or use the vehicle.
- Coercion or Duress: If you were forced or threatened to take the vehicle against your will.
- Illegal Search and Seizure: Challenging unlawfully obtained evidence.
- Insufficient Evidence: Arguing the prosecution’s case is weak or circumstantial.
It is crucial to remember that you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
The Legal Process in Hillsborough County
The legal process for a felony charge like Grand Theft Motor Vehicle in Hillsborough County typically involves the following stages:
- Arrest and Booking
- First Appearance Hearing
- Arraignment
- Discovery
- Pre-Trial Motions
- Plea Negotiations
- Trial
- Sentencing
Experienced legal representation throughout this process is essential to protect your rights and advocate for the best possible outcome.
The Need for Experienced Legal Counsel in Hillsborough County
Facing a Grand Theft Motor Vehicle charge in Hillsborough County demands the attention of a knowledgeable and dedicated criminal defense attorney. As W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., I have a proven track record of defending clients against felony charges in this jurisdiction. My firm is committed to:
- Conducting a thorough investigation.
- Analyzing the evidence and identifying weaknesses.
- Developing a strategic and aggressive defense.
- Protecting your constitutional rights.
- Negotiating effectively with prosecutors.
- Providing strong representation at trial.
Do not underestimate the seriousness of a Grand Theft Motor Vehicle charge. Your future and your freedom are at stake.
Contact W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. Today for a Confidential Consultation
If you or someone you know has been charged with Grand Theft Motor Vehicle in Hillsborough County, Florida, time is of the essence. Contact the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. immediately at (813) 222-2220 to schedule a confidential consultation.
Our office is conveniently located to serve clients throughout Hillsborough County. You can find our full contact details and directions on our website: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/. We are here to listen to your story, understand your situation, and provide you with the strong legal defense you deserve. Don’t wait – call us today to begin protecting your future.
Frequently Asked Questions THEF2201
This is a form code often used to designate the charge of Grand Theft Motor Vehicle under Florida Statute § 812.014.
Yes, it is generally classified as a third-degree felony.
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly obtained or used the vehicle of another with the intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of it or appropriate it for your own or another unauthorized person’s use.
A third-degree felony in Florida carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, up to 5 years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000 (Florida Statutes §§ 775.082 and 775.083).
Yes, even if the vehicle is recovered, you can still be charged if the prosecution can prove you had the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of it.
Potential defenses include lack of intent, mistake of fact, coercion, illegal search and seizure, and insufficient evidence.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can protect your rights, investigate the charges, build a strong defense, negotiate with the prosecution, and represent you in court.
Remain silent, do not answer any questions without your attorney present, and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
As a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Hillsborough County, I have the knowledge, experience, and dedication to provide you with aggressive and effective legal representation.
You can call my office directly at (813) 222-2220 to schedule a confidential consultation. You can also find our contact information on our website: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/.
Original 2010 Version
“Appropriate the property to his or her own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the use of the property”
Grand Theft Motor Vehicle
If you have been charged with THEF2201 GRAND THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE you can call a Grand Theft Motor Vehicle Attorney at (813) 222-2220.
Form Code: THEF2201
Florida Statute: 812.014.2C6
Level: Fel (Felony)
Degree: 3rd
Description: GRAND THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE
THEF2201 GRAND THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE one of the most commonly charged offenses in Hillsborough County, Florida.
Title XLVI CRIMES
Chapter 812 THEFT, ROBBERY, AND RELATED CRIMES
812.014 Theft.
(1) A person commits theft if he or she knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or to use, the property of another with intent to, either temporarily or permanently:
(a) Deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property.
(b) Appropriate the property to his or her own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the use of the property.
THEF2201 GRAND THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE