Power outages, supply shortages, and damaged infrastructure often push Florida residents to the edge after a hurricane. Unfortunately, it is during these trying times that a rise in petit theft, fuel theft and other crimes occurs, particularly in hard-hit areas.
If you’ve been arrested for petit theft after a hurricane, you must figure out what to do next and how to protect your rights. At Alers Law Firm, our theft crimes attorneys in Orlando are here to help you navigate the complex legal system in Florida. We know that post-hurricane crime is a serious problem in our state, but sometimes people get caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Don’t handle criminal charges on your own. Contact the Alers Law Firm. We know the system and are here to fight for your rights.
Hurricanes and the Surge in Post-Storm Crimes
The most recent hurricanes in Florida—Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Miltion—were devastating, leaving widespread damage across the state. With the chaos that follows these powerful storms, it’s common to see a surge in arrests for petit theft, looting, stealing fuel & generators and other offenses. Post-hurricane arrests often result from misunderstandings or desperation in difficult circumstances. In fact, data from previous storms shows that petit theft charges rise significantly in the wake of disasters as people attempt to recover personal items or take advantage of vacant properties.
In 2022, after Hurricane Ian, reports indicated that looting became a concern in hard-hit areas like Fort Myers, where residents had evacuated, leaving their homes vulnerable. Police made numerous arrests for property-related crimes after Hurricane Ian. Similar patterns occurred following Hurricane Idalia when overwhelmed communities saw heightened law enforcement activities to prevent theft and protect property owners.
While some people may commit theft out of necessity or panic during these times, Florida law remains strict regarding crimes of opportunity, especially after a hurricane or other natural disaster.
What Constitutes Petit Theft in Florida?
In Florida, petit theft involves unlawfully taking property valued at less than $750. It is considered a misdemeanor but can still carry significant penalties, particularly for repeat offenders. Here’s a breakdown of how Florida categorizes petit theft:
- First-degree petit theft: If the stolen property is valued between $100 and $749, it is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties can include up to one year in jail, one year of probation, and fines up to $1,000.
- Second-degree petit theft: This applies when the value of the stolen property is less than $100. It is a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and fines up to $500.
Why Post-Hurricane Theft Happens
After a hurricane, many people face prolonged power outages, inaccessible roads, and severe shortages of essentials like food, water, and medical supplies. With some areas cut off from outside help for days, people can become desperate.
- Desperation: With resources scarce, some people turn to theft to meet their basic needs. In the heat of the moment, grabbing food or supplies from an abandoned store may seem like the only option, especially when communication lines are down and access to help is limited.
- Opportunism: Unfortunately, some take advantage of the situation to commit crimes. With homes evacuated and businesses shuttered, certain individuals see an opportunity to loot or take what isn’t theirs, thinking they won’t get caught.
- Confusion: In the chaos after a hurricane, misunderstandings happen. Someone might be accused of theft for trying to recover their own property from a damaged or abandoned home, especially when the lines between personal property and communal disaster relief supplies get blurred.
The Legal Consequences of Petit Theft in Florida
Petit theft may seem like a minor offense, but in Florida, the consequences can be severe, especially during emergencies. In post-hurricane conditions, law enforcement often adopts a zero-tolerance policy, cracking down hard on any kind of theft or looting.
Florida’s State of Emergency Laws play a key role here. When a state of emergency is declared, crimes like theft can carry stiffer penalties under Florida Statute § 812.014. For example, looting during a declared state of emergency can result in enhanced charges and penalties.
Post-Hurricane Resources in Florida
At The Alers Law Firm, we want to support you as you recover from the recent hurricanes in Florida. We’ve compiled a list of helpful resources, whether you’re dealing with property damage, displacement, or other challenges. Our goal is to make sure you have the tools and information you need to start rebuilding. We’re also here to guide and protect your rights if you need legal assistance during this difficult time. Reach out for support—you don’t have to go through this alone.
- Florida Disaster – Individual Assistance
- FEMA Hurricane Helene Response
- Florida Housing Disaster Relief
- Florida Education Association Hurricane Resources
Call Our Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Facing a petit theft charge, especially after a hurricane, can feel overwhelming. You might feel that the circumstances were out of your control and you didn’t intend to break the law. But even with that understanding, the law in Florida is firm, especially in disaster recovery situations.
This is why hiring a strong Orlando criminal defense lawyer is a necessity. At Alers Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges of post-hurricane crime and will challenge the evidence to protect your rights and your future after an arrest.
A petit theft charge can feel like a huge setback, especially after an Orlando hurricane. But with the right defense and legal support, you can get through this difficult time.
You can schedule a free initial consultation by calling us today at 407-930-4888. When everything is at stake, call Alers Law Firm.
Attorney Chavelys Y. Alers was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She specifically grew up in the towns of Vega Baja and Dorado. Attorney Alers is bilingual, as she is fluent in both English and Spanish. Two decades ago, Attorney Alers migrated from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States, Central Florida. Learn more here.
