Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Is a Self-Defense Immunity Hearing in Florida?
Florida law provides a powerful legal justification for using force, including deadly force, without the legal obligation to retreat in certain situations. This is referred to as the “Stand Your Ground” law. However, while many people have heard the term “self-defense,” not many understand how it works. Specifically, many people do not realize that… Read More »
Common Misconceptions About Online Solicitation Cases
Online solicitation cases are among the most serious cases in Florida and at the federal level. Florida and federal laws impose severe penalties for using a computer or another electronic device to communicate illegally with minors. Unfortunately, there are many myths about this offense, which can lead to confusion. If you do not understand… Read More »
How Police Sting Operations Work in Florida Solicitation of Minor Cases
Florida takes crimes against children very seriously. Law enforcement officers employ several tactics to catch perpetrators. Child sex sting operations are one of the most common tactics law enforcement officers in Florida use to catch people who seek to engage in illegal sexual activity with minors. Usually, these operations involve undercover agents pretending to… Read More »
You Don’t Have To Meet a Minor To Face Solicitation Charges
Many people mistakenly believe that “online solicitation of a minor” charges only apply when a person physically meets a minor. The reality is that just chatting with someone you believe is a minor in a sexual manner is enough to land you in legal trouble. It is crucial that you understand this about solicitation… Read More »
Understanding Entrapment Defense in Florida Online Solicitation Cases
Over the years, online sex sting operations have become a popular method for law enforcement to catch suspected child predators. While online sting operations aim to protect children, they sometimes raise complex legal questions. A common legal question is whether the police entrapped the defendant. If you are charged with online solicitation and believe… Read More »
Legal Defenses Against Online Solicitation Charges in Florida
In Florida, among the most serious charges you can face are online solicitation charges. Being charged with online solicitation can feel really scary. The crime of online solicitation carries severe penalties. If you are convicted, you could face lengthy prison time, mandatory sex offender registration, and dealing with lasting social stigma. However, it is… Read More »
The Harsh Consequences of Enticing a Minor as a Repeat Offender
Law enforcement in Florida and federal prosecutors take crimes related to enticing minors very seriously. Being convicted of such a crime can result in severe penalties, especially if the person has a previous conviction. For repeat offenders, consequences of being convicted of enticing a minor can include decades in prison, lifetime supervision, and permanent… Read More »
Accused of Talking Inappropriately With a Minor Online? What You Need To Know Before It’s Too Late
Meeting people online is more common today than ever before. However, people need to be cautious, especially when using dating or chat platforms. It is very easy to be accused of having inappropriate conversations with a minor. If this occurs, your case will be investigated aggressively. Depending on the facts of your case, your… Read More »
What To Do if You’re Arrested in a Florida Child Sex Sting Operation
Law enforcement officers in Florida often conduct undercover sting operations to catch individuals suspected of committing child sex crimes. In child sex sting operations, detectives pretend to be minors or adults setting up meetings with minors. Being arrested in such an operation can be an overwhelming and terrifying experience. If you are arrested in… Read More »
When Receiving Child Porn and Firearm Possession Overlap: Understanding the Consequences
Federal prosecutors take both the offense of receiving child sex abuse material (CSAM) and illegal firearm possession extremely seriously. The consequences can be devastating when these two crimes overlap in one investigation. If you are caught up in such a situation, you risk facing decades behind bars and mandatory sex offender registration. In this… Read More »
