Halloween and Teen Crimes: Common Offenses and How They’re Handled in Florida
Halloween can be a night to remember for children of all ages. Dressing up, eating too much candy, and spending time with friends. Each of us can remember a Halloween where we did one or all of these things.
When a child’s future is put in jeopardy because of Halloween tricks taken too far, a criminal defense attorney may come in handy. Difilippo & Pica, PLLC, knows how to advocate on behalf of a teenager who is accused of a Halloween-related crime.
Different Types Of Halloween Offenses
Throwing eggs at people, vehicles, or homes is a common activity among teenagers on Halloween night. While the teens engaging in the act may not think much of throwing raw eggs at an unsuspecting target, the reality is that the law in Florida does not approach this action with the same mindset.
Toilet papering a home or trees is another Halloween activity for certain teens to engage in. Taking a few rolls of toilet paper from home and “decorating” the trees of a neighboring home or that of a classmate is how toilet papering tends to unfold (no pun intended).
How Does Florida State Law Treat Halloween Hijinks?
While these activities may be harmless fun to one extent or another, the state of Florida treats them as anything but harmless.
Specifically, Florida classifies many Halloween pranks as criminal mischief. To a child, tossing rolls of toilet paper may not seem like a big deal. However, the state of Florida treats criminal mischief as something serious.
When the damage to property is valued at less than $200, then Halloween-related crimes are a second-degree misdemeanor. Damages between $200 and $1000 raise the stakes up to a first-degree misdemeanor. Any resulting damages valued at more than $1,000 are a third-degree felony.
Felonies are extremely serious offenses that carry significant prison sentences if found guilty. Third-degree felonies may result in up to five years in jail for the offender. Five years in prison is more than enough to cause your child to fall behind socially, educationally, and in terms of work experience.
Theft On Halloween Can Mean More Than Stealing A Candy Bar
Petty larceny is a crime in Florida. Taking anything from another person, the value of which is less than $300, counts as petty larceny. So, if your teenager wants to indulge their sweet tooth by swiping the Trick or Treating bag of a smaller child, it would be in their best interests to think that through. Are a few fun-size candy bars worth some not-so-fun years in prison?
Difilippo & Pica, PLLC, Fighters For The Rights Of Criminal Defendants
When your child is facing criminal charges in connection with a Halloween prank gone wrong, it is critical to understand who will have your child’s back. Difilippo & Pica, PLLC, doesn’t back down from a fight. A consultation with our attorneys will help you develop a strategy geared towards the long-term success of your child. Contact our office today.