hurricane looting law

Post: Florida’s New Hurricane Looting Law: What You Need to Know

Just before recent monster storms Helene and Milton hit the state, Florida’s tough new hurricane looting laws to combat theft during natural disasters went into effect. House Bill 549, which took effect on October 1, 2024, introduces significant changes to the state’s approach to burglary and theft, particularly in the context of the recent hurricanes.

Hurricane Looting

This new legislation aims to protect communities from property crimes during their most vulnerable moments. The hurricane looting law is part of a broader effort to enhance public safety and deter criminal activity during vulnerable times. It addresses not only looting but also retail theft and porch piracy, reflecting the state’s commitment to establishing Florida as a “law-and-order” state.

Key Provisions of Florida’s Hurricane Looting Law

Under the new hurricane looting law, looting is defined as theft that occurs from within a structure or its enclosed area during conditions arising from an emergency. This includes scenarios where power outages or other disruptions facilitate criminal activity. Law enforcement agencies are now empowered to treat such acts with greater severity, aiming to protect vulnerable communities during recovery efforts.

Hurricane Looting

The legislation imposes stricter penalties for various forms of theft. For example, retail theft committed with five or more individuals is now classified as a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. If social media is used to incite participation in such thefts, it becomes a second-degree felony, which could get you a sentence of up to 15 years. The law also allows for multiple retail thefts occurring within a 120-day period to be charged as a single offense, increasing from the previous limit of 30 days.

Police have ramped up patrols in neighborhoods ravaged by the hurricanes. Officers are specifically tasked with deterring looting and ensuring that residents can focus on rebuilding without the added worry of theft. This increased law enforcement presence is a direct result of the new hurricane looting law.

Defending Against Charges Under the New Law

With the implementation of this stringent hurricane looting law, individuals accused of theft crimes during natural disasters face severe penalties. If you face theft charges, you need to talk to an Orlando criminal defense lawyer. A skilled attorney will protect your rights and rigorously defend against these charges.

An experienced Orlando criminal defense lawyer can help in several ways:

  1. Analyzing the evidence: They can scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, looking for inconsistencies or procedural mistakes that could weaken the case against you.
  2. Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a defense attorney may be able to negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
  3. Challenging the applicability of the law: They can argue whether the specific circumstances of your case truly fall under the new hurricane looting law.
  4. Protecting your rights: A defense lawyer ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process, from arrest to trial.
  5. Developing a strong defense strategy: Based on the specifics of your case, they can create a tailored defense strategy that gives you the best chance of a favorable outcome.
  6. Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, a skilled defense attorney will present your case effectively to the judge and jury.

Orlando Theft Crimes Defense Attorney

Hurricane Looting

However, critics argue that such harsh penalties may disproportionately affect certain communities and that the law could be misapplied in some situations. Having an experienced Orlando criminal defense lawyer is crucial if you’re facing charges.

If you’re looking for an attorney to give you the best defense against charges of theft, consider calling 407-644-2466 to talk to an experienced and aggressive Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney at the Rivas Law Firm.

Criminal defense attorney The Rivas Law Firm

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