CBS Local reports that residents of a new South Miami-Dade community known as Bonita Grand have faced a rash of about 15 dwelling burglaries in recent weeks.
It is reported that the majority of these burglaries occurred when the homes were not occupied, which is known in Florida as a burglary of an unoccupied dwelling. However, one instance occurred when somebody was in their home. This is known in Florida as burglary of an occupied dwelling.
Florida law makes no distinction between occupied burglary and unoccupied burglary in terms of maximum punishment. Both crimes are second-degree felonies punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code, a burglary of an unoccupied dwelling or burglary of an occupied dwelling "scores" 21 months at the bottom of the guidelines up to 15 years.
No word from law enforcement on any potential leads.
Miami burglary attorney and Broward burglary attorney Eric Matheny represents clients charged with all manners of burglary in Miami-Dade County and Broward County.