What is the Difference Between a Sex Offender and a Sexual Predator?
Many people in Florida believe that the terms sex offender and sex predator are interchangeable when it comes to sex crimes. However, these terms are not synonymous, and there are significant differences between them.
As a result, it is critical to understand the distinction between the terms sex offender and sexual predator.
The severity of the crime and prior sex offenses distinguish a sex offender from a predator in Florida. Sexual predators are repeat offenders or people convicted of first-degree felonies, whereas a sex offender is someone who was convicted of certain sex crimes against minors and released on or after October 1, 1997.
Because these terms are easily confused, read on to learn more information about the distinction between being labelled as a sexual predator and a sexual offender. If you have any further questions about a sex crimes in Florida, you should speak with a federal criminal defense attorney in St Petersburg as soon as possible.
The Difference between a Sex Offender and Sexual Predator in Florida
A sex offender is someone who was convicted of certain sex offenses in Florida or other jurisdictions and was released on or after October 1, 1997.
Sex crimes that qualify a person as a sex offender include, but are not limited to:
- Lewd and lascivious acts that comprise enticing a minor under 16 years of age to engage in any type of sexual activity
- Sexual assault
- Obtaining a minor for the purpose of prostitution
- False imprisonment of a minor
- Child pornography
A sexual predator, on the other hand, is a designation that indicates a potential risk to others in the community. In other words, predators pose a high risk to society. Sexual predators, according to Florida’s Sexual Predators Act, include repeat sex offenders, individuals who prey on children, and sex offenders who use physical violence.
In Florida, a sexual predator is someone who has been convicted of a first-degree felony sex crime, or has one or more second-degree felony convictions within the last ten years. Some sex crimes that may result in a sexual predator designation include, but are not limited to:
- Sexual battery against a minor or incompetent person
- Kidnapping a minor and committing a sexual offense
- Selling or purchasing minors for sexually explicit conduct
Restrictions Imposed on Sex Offenders and Sexual Predators in Florida
If you are convicted of a sex crime in Florida, your sentence will be determined by the gravity of the offense. Furthermore, if a person is found guilty of certain sexual offenses, he or she will be required to register with the sex registry.
Your picture, name, birth date, address, and other identifying information will be included in your listing. It also includes a list of your criminal convictions.
Although it is not outright common, some sex offenders may be eligible to have their names removed from the registry after 25 years. However, because sexual predators have a permanent record in this database, this option is not available to them.
Being a convicted sex offender or sexual predator may also impose additional restrictions and obligations on an individual, including:
- Not being able to live near places where children congregate (parks, schools, etc.)
- Notifying the sheriff’s office of any changes in vehicle ownership
- Possessing a driver’s license that labels you as a sex offender or sexual predator
- Having to pay for your supervision
- Notifying the sheriff’s office of your most recent address
Furthermore, if you are placed on probation, you must comply with the court’s specific conditions for such a scenario.
Someone convicted of sexual misconduct may find it extremely difficult to move on, especially if they are required to register as a sex offender or sexual predator with the state. In such a case, understanding the difference between an offender and a predator can help understand how important and impactful their defense can be, which is why you should consult an expert on such matters.
Contact a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in St. Petersburg to Understand Your Options
The ramifications of a sex crime conviction are far too serious to trust your case to an inexperienced lawyer. With a top federal defense lawyer in St. Petersburg at The Rickman Law Firm, clients can receive the best legal representation possible.
Obtain legal counsel and representation from the best federal criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg. Contact The Rickman Law Firm today for a bias-free, obligation-free consultation.
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.