Sarasota Internet Sex Crime Defense Lawyer

Defending Individuals From Online Sex Crime Allegations Throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties, FL

These days, many sex crimes involve internet and text communications. It is how people communicate. Terms like sexting are now becoming a regular part of our language. What are the laws regarding text messaging, instant messaging, photo sharing and other online communication that can result in sex crime charges?

If you are facing a sex crime charge that involves online communication or texting, an experienced lawyer can provide the representation you need. At McIntosh Law, our internet sex crimes attorneys in Sarasota understand the complexities involved with these types of cases. Since 1993, we have worked as a team to build a strong defense on behalf of our clients facing state and federal criminal charges.

Accused of internet sex crimes? Connect with a Sarasota internet sex crimes lawyer for a free consultation. Call us at (941) 299-0701 or reach out online to start building your defense.

Types of Internet Sex Crimes in Florida

Florida law classifies various online offenses as sex crimes, each with its own distinct set of elements and penalties. An experienced Sarasota internet sex crimes lawyer can help you understand the charges you're facing and how best to defend yourself.

• Online Sexual Exploitation of Minors: This offense involves the use of the internet or electronic communication to exploit a minor for sexual purposes, such as sending or receiving explicit images or engaging in explicit conversations.
• Internet Child Pornography Offenses: Possessing, distributing, or creating child pornography, even if it is downloaded or shared online, is a federal and state offense. Florida law treats child pornography offenses as felonies.
• Sexting and Distribution of Explicit Material: Sexting can lead to criminal charges when explicit images or texts are shared with minors, or if the person involved is unaware of the potential legal ramifications. In some cases, the distribution of explicit content may violate Florida's laws surrounding the transmission of obscene material.
• Sexual Harassment and Cyberstalking: These crimes typically involve sending unwanted explicit messages, images, or threats of sexual harm through online platforms.

How Florida Prosecutors Pursue Internet Sex Crimes

Florida prosecutors take internet sex crimes very seriously. When a crime involves the exploitation or harm of minors, the penalties are especially severe. As a result, the prosecution will often have a strong case backed by evidence gathered from online communication logs, search histories, and digital evidence like emails, text messages, or photos. The internet leaves a trail of data that can be used to build a case against you.

Prosecutors may also work with specialized investigative units, such as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) or federal agencies like the FBI, to track down suspects involved in internet sex crimes. These agencies may use various techniques, including undercover operations and digital forensics, to identify perpetrators of internet-based sex crimes. 

Given the resources these agencies have, defending against these types of charges requires the knowledge and skill of an experienced Sarasota internet sex crimes lawyer.

Penalties for Internet Sex Crimes in Florida

The penalties for internet sex crimes in Florida are severe. The specific penalties depend on the type of offense, the age of the victim, and whether the defendant has a prior criminal record. Common penalties for internet sex crimes in Florida include:

• Imprisonment: Convictions for internet sex crimes can result in lengthy prison sentences. For example, possessing child pornography can result in a minimum sentence of 5 years, while the online sexual exploitation of minors may lead to 15 years or more in prison.
• Fines: Many internet sex crime convictions also come with significant fines, which can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.
• Sex Offender Registration: A conviction for internet sex crimes often includes the requirement to register as a sex offender. This can impact your ability to find employment, travel, and live in certain areas, as well as subject you to ongoing monitoring by law enforcement.
• Probation: In some cases, probation may be part of the sentence. This means you may have to comply with strict conditions, including regular check-ins with a probation officer, attending counseling, and refraining from any internet activity that could lead to additional criminal charges.
• Loss of Professional License: Professionals such as teachers, medical workers, and attorneys may face professional disciplinary actions if convicted of an internet sex crime. This may result in the suspension or revocation of their professional licenses, severely impacting their careers.

Defending Against Internet Sex Crimes Allegations

If you’ve been accused of an internet sex crime in Sarasota, a strong and strategic defense is crucial to protect your rights. A Sarasota internet sex crimes lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case and develop a tailored defense strategy. Common defenses include mistaken identity, where someone else may have used your devices or accounts to commit the crime, or lack of intent, where you may have been accused of actions without the criminal intent to do so.

In addition, your attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence by pointing out inconsistencies or weaknesses in the digital evidence presented. Other defenses may include entrapment, where law enforcement may have induced you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have, or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. With a dedicated Sarasota online sex crimes attorney, you can ensure your case is thoroughly examined and aggressively defended.

A Team Approach To Internet Sex Crime Defense

An internet sex crime conviction can result in a prison sentence, being listed on the sex offender registry and strict, possibly lifelong reporting requirements.

We have represented clients in many sex crime cases involving online and text communication. Our attorneys will meet with you to find out about your unique situation, explain your rights and answer any questions you might have. We are skilled negotiators and accomplished litigators who will advocate for you.

Because our sex crimes attorneys in Sarasota work together as a team, we are able to collaborate to identify the best course of action for your case.

Schedule A Confidential Initial Consultation

Contact McIntosh Law today by email or phone at (941) 299-0701 to discuss your case with our attorneys. Headquartered in Sarasota, our attorneys represent clients throughout Florida. We offer flexible appointment times and we accept all major credit cards.