In Florida, even minor theft convictions are taken seriously. A misdemeanor theft conviction can cost the offender his or her job as well as hinder future employment or educational opportunities. A felony theft charge is even more serious and can result in lengthy jail time.

Gainesville police were searching today for three robbery suspects, according to a local news report. The three men were suspected of robbing a downtown package store earlier in the day Friday, according to the report. The three men had allegedly distracted the clerk of the store on Broad Street just after 1 p.m., before somehow managing to steal a bag of money from behind the counter.

The news report did not disclose exactly how much money had been stolen, or how the men got behind the counter without the clerk noticing. The clerk gave a description of two of the robbers to police, but thus far police have not been able to locate anyone matching the description in the neighborhood of the store.

Those who are arrested on theft charges - ranging anywhere from shoplifting to white collar-level embezzlement - would be wise to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney will be able to identify if the state has a strong case and whether the state is willing to make a reasonable plea offer. Being accused of a crime does not mean that you are guilty of the charges, and it is important to have someone advocate for your rights at trial or in negotiations.

Source: Gainesville Times, "Gainesville police searching for 3 robbery suspects," Patrick Stoker, Jan. 20, 2012