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Top 50 Ways Into Hillsborough County Jail | Tampa
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Arrested in Florida? Know the Top 50 Ways You Can Go to Jail
Every year, thousands of Floridians find themselves behind bars for offenses ranging from the mundane to the extreme. Understanding the most common reasons people go to jail in Florida is more than curiosity—it’s a practical way to stay informed, stay safe, and stay out of trouble. From DUI and petit theft to resisting arrest and drug possession, the State of Florida has laws on the books that can quickly turn a routine encounter with law enforcement into a criminal case. This guide explores the Top 50 Ways to Go to Jail in Florida, drawing from real charges and classifications under Florida criminal law.
Whether you’re a Florida resident, tourist, or someone dealing with a recent arrest, this list can help you identify serious pitfalls before they cost you your freedom. This information is based on Florida criminal statutes and arrest data sourced from reliable government websites like the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
If you or a loved one has been arrested for any of the offenses listed below, call W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. at (813) 222-2220 or visit our secure contact form at centrallaw.com/contact-us. Don’t guess—get answers.Here are some statistics from Tampa’s Hillsborough County Jail. We have collected the top 50 ways to end up in Tampa, Florida’s jail and have shared them below.
Understanding Arrest Statistics in Tampa, Florida
Here are some statistics from Tampa’s Hillsborough County Jail regarding various arrest reasons:
Top Reasons for Arrest:
- Drug-related charges
- Traffic violations
- Theft-related charges
Exploring Arrest Records:
We have reviewed a number of arrest records, and it appears there are numerous different ways that can lead to arrests for various criminal charges within this major metropolitan jail.
It’s important to note that engaging in illegal activities can have serious consequences, and we encourage everyone to follow the law and make responsible choices.
Drug and traffic charges dominate the Top Ten. Theft charges seem to take the second group of ten. We have reviewed a number of other arrest records and it appears there are 1656 different ways to end up arrested for criminal charges and inside of this major metropolitan jail. Lets take a look at the Top Ten.
Table: Top 10 Most Common Ways to Go to Jail in Florida
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| Rank | Offense | Statute Reference | Jail Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DUI | F.S. 316.193 | Up to 6–12 months |
| 2 | Petit Theft (Under $750) | F.S. 812.014 | Up to 1 year |
| 3 | Resisting Officer Without Violence | F.S. 843.02 | Up to 1 year |
| 4 | Possession of Marijuana (<20 grams) | F.S. 893.13 | Up to 1 year |
| 5 | Driving with a Suspended License | F.S. 322.34 | Up to 60 days – 5 years |
| 6 | Battery | F.S. 784.03 | Up to 1 year (misdemeanor) |
| 7 | Domestic Violence | F.S. 741.28 | Up to 1 year or more |
| 8 | Trespass After Warning | F.S. 810.09 | Up to 1 year |
| 9 | Disorderly Conduct | F.S. 877.03 | Up to 60 days |
| 10 | Failure to Appear | F.S. 843.15 | Up to 5 years (felony) |
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Call Us at 813-222-2220
If you’re facing criminal charges in Florida, don’t face the system alone. As a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer and former prosecutor, W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. is prepared to fight for you. Whether it’s a DUI, resisting an officer, or another misdemeanor or felony, you need immediate, experienced legal help.
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At Central Law, we believe that contacting an attorney should be fast, secure, and confidential. On our contact page at https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/, you’ll find everything you need to get in touch with W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. Whether you prefer to call or fill out a quick online form, help is just a few clicks or a phone call away. We take your privacy seriously and respond promptly to all inquiries.
THE LIST: Top 50 Ways Into the Hillsborough County Jail
| Ranking | Charge Description | Form Code | Statute | Level | Degree |
| 1. | Driving W/License Canc Susp Or Revoked | TRAF6075 | 322.34.2A | Misd | 2nd |
| 2. | Possession Of Cocaine | DRUG1101 | 893.13.6A | Fel | 3rd |
| 3. | Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia | DRUG8100 | 893.147. | Misd | 1st |
| 4. | Grand Theft 3rd ($300 – $5,000) | THEF2001 | 812.014.2C1 | Fel | 3rd |
| 5. | Possession Of Cannabis Less Than 20 Grams | DRUG2103 | 893.13.6B | Misd | 1st |
| 6. | Battery (Domestic Violence) | BATT1002 | 784.03.1AB | Misd | 1st |
| 7. | Driving Under The Influence | TRAF1012 | 316.193.1 | Misd | 2nd |
| 8. | Obstructing Or Opposing An Officer Without Vio | COPS1000 | 843.02. | Misd | 1st |
| 9. | Driving While License Revoked-Habitual Offender | TRAF6078 | 322.34.5 | Fel | 3rd |
| 10. | Petit Theft ($100 Or Less) | THEF1011 | 812.014.3A | Misd | 2nd |
| 11. | Possession Of Controlled Substance | DRUG9101 | 893.13.6A | Fel | 3rd |
| 12. | Dealing In Stolen Property | THEF5000 | 812.019.1 | Fel | 2nd |
| 13. | Uttering A Forged Instrument | FORG2000 | 831.02. | Fel | 3rd |
| 14. | Battery (Touch Or Strike) | BATT1000 | 784.03.1AB | Misd | 1st |
| 15. | Trespass On Prop Other Than Structure Or Conve | TRES4001 | 810.09.1A2A | Misd | 1st |
| 16. | Grand Theft Motor Vehicle | THEF2201 | 812.014.2C6 | Fel | 3rd |
| 17. | Contempt Of Court | ADMIN007 | 901.11. | Infractions | |
| 18. | Obtain.Prop. For Worthless Ck.(Less Than $150) | WOCK2000 | 832.05.4 | Misd | 1st |
| 19. | False Name To Law Enforcement Officer | COPS2060 | 901.36.1 | Misd | 1st |
| 20. | Delivery Of Cocaine | DRUG1200 | 893.13.1A | Fel | 2nd |
| 21. | Possession Of Open Container | TPOR0064 | 003.40.B | Municipal/Local | |
| 22. | Manufacture Dist Dispense Posses Con Sub- Fed | USCA0003 | 021.841. | ||
| 23. | Operating Unregistered Vehicle | TRAF5015 | 320.02.1 | Misd | 2nd |
| 24. | Petit Theft 1st | THEF1010 | 812.014.2E | Misd | 1st |
| 25. | No Valid Drivers License | TRAF5099 | 322.03.1 | Misd | 2nd |
| 26. | Possession Of Cocaine With Intent To Sell Or Deliver | DRUG1300 | 893.13.1A | Fel | 2nd |
| 27. | Possession Of Cannabis | DRUG2102 | 893.13.6A | Fel | 3rd |
| 28. | Aggravated Assault With Deadly Weapon | ASSA5005 | 784.021.1A | Fel | 3rd |
| 29. | Battery On A Law Enforcement Officer | BATT1010 | 784.03.1A | Fel | 3rd |
| 30. | Driving Under The Influence Unlawful Breath A | TRAF1015 | 316.193.1C | Misd | 2nd |
| 31. | Attaching Tag Not Assigned | TRAF5040 | 320.261. | Misd | 2nd |
| 32. | Possession Of Cannabis With Intent To Sell Or Deliver | DRUG2300 | 893.13.1A | Fel | 3rd |
| 33. | Aggravated Battery Deadly Weapon | BATT5000 | 784.045.1A2 | Fel | 2nd |
| 34. | Aggravated Battery (Deadly Weapon) | BATT5000 | 784.045.1A2 | Fel | 2nd |
| 35. | False Info On Pawnbroker Form (Under $300) | PAWN8010 | 539.001.8 | Fel | 3rd |
| 36. | Criminal Mischief Less Than $200 | CRMS1000 | 806.13.1B1 | Misd | 2nd |
| 37. | Obstructing Or Opposing An Officer With Violen | COPS2000 | 843.01. | Fel | 3rd |
| 38. | Burglary Of An Unoccupied Conveyance | BURG0022 | 810.02.1B4B | Fel | 3rd |
| 39. | Reckless Driving | TRAF3030 | 316.192. | Misd | 2nd |
| 40. | Felon In Possession Firearm Firearm Possess | GUNS0420 | 790.23.1 | Fel | 2nd |
| 41. | Obtain.Prop. For Worthless Ck (More Than $150) | WOCK3000 | 832.05.4 | Fel | 3rd |
| 42. | Disorderly Conduct | MISC0124 | 877.03. | Misd | 2nd |
| 43. | Fraudulent Use Of Credit Card Over $100 | FRAU3000 | 817.61. | Fel | 3rd |
| 44. | Robbery (Less Than $300) | ROBB3000 | 812.13.12C | Fel | 2nd |
| 45. | Aggravated Battery Great Bodily Harm | BATT5050 | 784.045.1A1 | Fel | 2nd |
| 46. | Criminal Mischief $200 To $1000 | CRMS2000 | 806.13.1B2 | Misd | 1st |
| 47. | Worthless Check | WOCK1000 | 832.05.2 | Misd | 1st |
| 48. | Forgery | FORG1000 | 831.01. | Fel | 3rd |
| 49. | Criminal Mischief $1000 Or More | CRMS3000 | 806.13.1B3 | Fel | 3rd |
| 50. | Carrying Concealed Firearm | WEAP1000 | 790.01.2 | Fel | 3rd |
🔍 Top 10 Questions About the Top 50 Ways to Go to Jail in Florida (With Statute Links)
The most frequent arrests in Florida include DUI, petty theft, domestic battery, driving with a suspended license, and resisting an officer without violence. These charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on prior convictions and aggravating circumstances. Even seemingly minor offenses like shoplifting or non-violent resistance can carry jail time. Legal representation can mean the difference between a conviction and a second chance.
Yes. Under Florida Statute § 843.02 (Justia), resisting an officer without violence is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail. You can be arrested simply for verbally refusing a lawful order or passively pulling away. These charges are often subjective and depend on the officer’s account, so having a defense lawyer is critical.
Not necessarily, but it can be. A first-time DUI under § 316.193 (Justia) may result in probation, fines, and license suspension. However, aggravating factors—such as a high BAC, minors in the vehicle, or property damage—can escalate the penalties, including mandatory jail time. Repeat offenders face even harsher consequences.
You’ll be taken to jail, booked, and held for a first appearance, usually within 24 hours. During this appearance, a judge sets bail or conditions for release. If you qualify, you may be released on your own recognizance (ROR), though more serious charges may require a bond or no bond at all. The earlier you retain a defense attorney, the better your chances of release and defense preparation.
Yes. Driving with a suspended license can result in jail time, especially if you’re a repeat offender or a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO). Under § 322.34 (Justia), even a first offense can carry up to 60 days in jail, while third offenses may be charged as third-degree felonies with up to 5 years in prison. Don’t risk it—get legal help right away.
Misdemeanors are crimes punishable by up to one year in county jail, while felonies can result in over a year in state prison. Misdemeanors include minor theft, battery, and resisting without violence. Felonies include burglary, grand theft, and aggravated battery. The consequences of a felony—like loss of civil rights—are much more severe and long-lasting.
Yes. Florida’s Sunshine Laws make mugshots and arrest records publicly available, even if the charges are dropped or dismissed. These records are often posted on county jail websites and picked up by mugshot publishing platforms. You may need to file for expungement or sealing of your record to remove them, and an attorney can guide you through the process.
You can check for active warrants by visiting your county sheriff’s website or using the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Wanted Persons Search. Some warrants may not appear online, especially sealed or federal ones. If you suspect a warrant exists, consult with a criminal defense attorney before attempting to resolve it on your own.
Yes, particularly if they result in a suspended license and you’re later caught driving. Failure to appear in traffic court can also lead to a bench warrant. If you accumulate unpaid fines, points, or miss court appearances, you could face arrest and jail time. A defense attorney can help you restore your license and handle unresolved tickets before they become criminal issues.
The best time to contact a criminal defense attorney is immediately after an arrest, a police encounter, or even if you suspect you are under investigation. Early legal intervention can prevent formal charges, help negotiate release conditions, and ensure your rights are protected during questioning. A skilled lawyer may also secure diversion programs, plea deals, or even get charges dismissed before they reach court. At Central Law, we provide aggressive, board-certified defense the moment you need it—don’t wait until it’s too late.
Additional Table: Top 5 Consequences of a Florida Arrest
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| Consequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Criminal Record | Even a misdemeanor creates a permanent record. |
| Driver’s License Suspension | Common for DUI, drug crimes, and unpaid fines. |
| Immigration Consequences | Arrests can result in visa revocation or deportation. |
| Loss of Employment | Many employers terminate employees upon learning of an arrest. |
| Mandatory Court Appearances | Missing court can lead to a bench warrant and even harsher penalties. |
More About Top 10 Ways to Get Arrested in Hillsborough County
1. Driving with License Canceled, Suspended, or Revoked (TRAF6075)
Statute: 322.34.2A
Level: Misdemeanor (2nd-degree)
Driving with a canceled, suspended, or revoked license is a 2nd-degree misdemeanor. Violating this law can lead to arrest if caught operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license.
2. Possession of Cocaine (DRUG1101)
Statute: 893.13.6A
Level: Felony (3rd-degree)
Possession of cocaine is a 3rd-degree felony in Florida. Being found with this controlled substance can result in arrest and severe legal consequences.
3. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (DRUG8100)
Statute: 893.147
Level: Misdemeanor (1st-degree)
Possessing drug paraphernalia, such as items for drug use, is a 1st-degree misdemeanor. Arrests can occur when individuals are found with these items.
4. Grand Theft 3rd Degree ($300 – $5,000) (THEF2001)
Statute: 812.014.2C1
Level: Felony (3rd-degree)
Grand theft of property valued between $300 and $5,000 is a 3rd-degree felony. Arrests are made for this crime, involving unlawful property taking.
5. Possession of Cannabis Less Than 20 Grams (DRUG2103)
Statute: 893.13.6B
Level: Misdemeanor (1st-degree)
Possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis is a 1st-degree misdemeanor. Arrests can occur when individuals are found with this amount of marijuana.
6. Battery (Domestic Violence) (BATT1002)
Statute: 784.03.1AB
Level: Misdemeanor (1st-degree)
Battery within a domestic violence context is a 1st-degree misdemeanor. Arrests are made for unlawful physical contact or harm against family or household members.
7. Driving Under the Influence (TRAF1012)
Statute: 316.193.1
Level: Misdemeanor (2nd-degree)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a 2nd-degree misdemeanor, leading to arrests and legal consequences.
8. Obstructing or Opposing an Officer Without Violence (COPS1000)
Statute: 843.02
Level: Misdemeanor (1st-degree)
Obstructing or opposing an officer without violence is a 1st-degree misdemeanor. Arrests can result when individuals interfere with law enforcement without using force.
9. Driving While License Revoked – Habitual Offender (TRAF6078)
Statute: 322.34.5
Level: Felony (3rd-degree)
Driving with a revoked license as a habitual offender is a 3rd-degree felony. It reflects repeated violations of traffic laws, leading to arrests.
10. Petit Theft ($100 or Less) (THEF1011)
Statute: 812.014.3A
Level: Misdemeanor (2nd-degree)
Petit theft of property valued at $100 or less is a 2nd-degree misdemeanor, resulting in arrests for unlawful property taking.
If you have been charged or Arrested you can call a Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney at (813) 222-2220 to Fight for You.