How Long After You're Caught Stealing Can You Be Charged

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Florida

Ok, so I got caught taking a picture of an access code at a book store. The retail price of the book was under $200 but over $150. It was classified as Petty Theft according to the officer. Anyways, he referred me to my University and to the County. I got caught in September of 2012. My school put me on academic probation (slap on the wrist) but I haven't heard anything from the County. It's been 5 months now. Not a single letter or anything from them. My big question is, how long does the court system have to issue a summons before they can no longer do anything? Was it 6 months or a year? Also, since this is my FIRST offense, is there maybe a possibility they might not follow through with it (false hope)? I did get a call about 3 months ago from the County in regards to my theft but I wasn't able to answer it so they left a voice-mail. I called them back next morning and they said they called in error and still haven't heard anything. What's that mean? This waiting is giving me so much anxiety, it's killing me. Dumbest decision of my life. Anyways, please give me factual, informative answers. Thanks!

It varies by state....generally, they have 1-2 years to file criminal charges.

Quote:

---

Quoting PandorasBox

---

It varies by state....generally, they have 1-2 years to file criminal charges.

---

Looking for something more specific than that.

1 year unless you are continuously out of the state, then it can be extended for three years.

PandorasBox and SC's answers are as specific as you can get for Florida. If you are in state, the answer is two years for most theft charges (it depends what they want to charge you with). If you leave he state, it might be extended up to three years.

Unfortunately, we are not psychic......