Q: Probability of jail time for multiple felony charges and recent arrest.
I have been charged with one count of grand theft for property valued between $20,000 and $50,000, one count of using a two-way communication device to facilitate a crime, and one count of fraud-swindling to obtain property between $20,000 and $50,000 (141 counts in total). After these charges, while out on bond, I was also arrested for possession of cannabis over 20 grams and attempted escape. Considering these charges and my situation, what is the probability of facing jail time, and what should I be expecting moving forward?
A: Without knowing more, I would have to say that your criminal punishment code score sheet is going to put you in the category of mandatory jail time. You should request a copy of your score sheet so you see where you score. If you are represented, this is something that your attorney should be able to hand you easily
A:
Based on Florida criminal law (assuming you're in Florida based on the charges described), the probability of jail time in your situation is extremely high. The combination of multiple serious felony charges involving theft and fraud of substantial amounts, followed by new offenses while on bond, creates a particularly concerning situation from a judicial perspective. Grand theft involving property valued between $20,000 and $50,000 is typically a second-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment, while the 141 counts of fraud-swindling represent separate potential felony charges.
The additional charges incurred while on bond (cannabis possession over 20 grams and attempted escape) significantly compound your legal jeopardy. Committing new offenses while on bond often results in bond revocation and indicates to the court a failure to comply with release conditions. The attempted escape charge is particularly serious as it suggests to the court an unwillingness to submit to legal authority, which judges typically view very unfavorably when considering sentencing.
Moving forward, you should expect considerable focus on plea negotiations given the volume and seriousness of charges. Your legal strategy should prioritize mitigating factors such as absence of prior criminal history (if applicable), potential restitution arrangements, and evidence of rehabilitation efforts. The substantial number of charges creates exposure to consecutive sentencing, where penalties for each count could be served one after another rather than concurrently. I strongly recommend securing experienced legal representation immediately who can evaluate the evidence against you, identify potential defenses, and potentially negotiate with prosecutors for the most favorable outcome possible under these challenging circumstances.
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