Helm v. State

QUINCE, Judge.

Stanley Helm (Helm) appeals his conviction for grand theft. Because there was insufficient evidence for the jury to convict, we reverse.

Helm was a licensed Florida attorney in 1983. On February 23, 1983, Sally and Donald Gayfers (the Gayfers) went to Helm’s law office to sign a purchase contract on a home they wished to buy. Prior to their visit, they had learned the home was owned by Derek Hughes (Hughes), who lived in England. While they were at Helm’s office, they executed a contract to purchase and gave Helm a down payment of $7,000.00. The contract was witnessed by Helm and…