What Happens If You’re Arrested for Traveling to Meet a Minor in Florida?
Being arrested for traveling to meet a minor in Florida can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Many of these arrests happen during law enforcement sex sting operations, where an undercover officer poses as a minor and communicates through electronic devices such as a phone or computer.
Even if physical contact did not occur, an arrest can still be made, and the consequences under Florida law can be severe. If you are under investigation or have been arrested for this crime, speaking with an experienced Tampa criminal attorney at The Rickman Law Firm as soon as possible is essential to protecting both your rights and your future.
What is Considered Traveling to Meet a Minor Under Florida Law?
According to Florida law, traveling to meet a minor for unlawful sexual conduct is a serious second-degree felony under Florida Statute § 847.0135. It can result in penalties such as up to 15 years in prison, a minimum mandatory sentence of 21 months in many cases, a $10,000 fine, as well as mandatory lifetime sex offender registration.
This offense typically begins when someone uses a phone, computer, or other electronic device to allegedly seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a person they believe to be under 18. Once a person travels or attempts to travel to meet the person they believe to be a minor for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual conduct, the offense may be considered complete under Florida law.
As mentioned previously, many sex sting operations actually involve an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a minor. Because the law focuses on the alleged intent and the act of traveling, no physical contact is required for an arrest to take place.
The process of being arrested for traveling to meet a minor can feel like your life has been permanently turned upside down. However, the top criminal attorneys in Tampa at The Rickman Law Firm know how to review the facts of your case, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.
How The Rickman Law Firm Can Help
If you have been arrested or contacted by law enforcement, having representation from a trusted Tampa criminal attorney is a crucial step in protecting your rights and future.
At The Rickman Law Firm, Attorney Anthony Rickman carefully reviews the facts of each case, including the evidence, witness credibility, and the actions taken by law enforcement during the investigation. He also looks for possible constitutional violations, including illegal searches, unlawful questioning, or entrapment, that could affect the outcome of your case.
Using skills learned as a former prosecutor and perfected as an experienced defense attorney, Anthony Rickman has represented clients facing sex crime allegations and works aggressively to pursue a favorable outcome for each case.
Contact The Rickman Law Firm Today for Top Criminal Defense in Tampa
If you have been arrested or are under investigation by law enforcement about traveling to meet a minor, do not wait to seek legal guidance.
Contact The Rickman Law Firm today to speak with one of the top criminal attorneys in Tampa who can review your case, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.
For a complimentary case consultation with a top Tampa criminal attorney, call The Rickman Law Firm or fill out a consultation form today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.