A suspected thief may have been overwhelmed with guilt or at least resigned to capture after seeing himself take somebody’s wallet, prompting him to turn himself in. He has been charged with a criminal offense and will need the services of a Fort Lauderdale theft defense attorney. Those in his situation should consider turning to the services available from the law firm of Hassett & Associates.
The incident that brought about the criminal charge occurred more than a month earlier at a gas station in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The victim was a customer who had accidentally left his wallet on the counter while purchasing some merchandise. The suspect came in from behind the victim and lifted the wallet, then stood nearby as others searched for the missing property. The entire sequence was captured on a surveillance video, which was later released by the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Seeing the video on television, the bearded suspect arranged his surrender after seeking help from an attorney. Before turning himself in, however, the suspect made two illegal purchases with a debit card found in the victim’s wallet.
This type of crime is normally considered larceny, which involves the taking of property without the consent or even knowledge of the victim. The crime does not involve an actual assault on the victim, but can still result in the prosecution of the perpetrator. The penalty will depend upon the value of the property that is taken and the circumstances of the theft. Adults convicted of even petty theft, which involves less than $300, can under Florida law face a fine and jail time. This is why it is of utmost importance for anyone charged with larceny to seek help from a Fort Lauderdale theft defense attorney.
A lawyer understands the law and the workings of the criminal justice system, and will do what is necessary to defend the rights of someone charged with a crime. In an attempt to vacate the charge or reduce the penalty, an attorney may challenge the circumstances of the event or the way the arrest was conducted, and may even bring into the case the willingness of the suspect to comply with law enforcement authorities. If necessary, a lawyer is prepared to argue the facts before a jury.
Criminal defendants such as the accused wallet thief should never risk their rights and freedoms. This is why those who find themselves in the same or a similar situation should contact the law office of Hassett & Associates at 954-791-3939.
