Mistakes To Avoid if You’re Arrested in a Florida Child Sex Sting Operation

Getting arrested in a child sex sting operation in Florida is one of the most serious and life-altering things anyone can go through. However, while some of those who end up arrested in these operations are guilty, some are entrapped, and others are simply caught up in misleading online conversations they never intended to act on.

If you have been arrested in a Florida child sex sting operation, it is vital that you understand what you should and should not do. What you do after your arrest can significantly impact your case and future. Below, we share some of the big mistakes people make after an arrest that you should avoid if you find yourself in this predicament.

1.    Talking to the Police Without an Attorney Present

One of the biggest mistakes you can make after being arrested in a Florida sex sting operation is trying to explain your side of the story to the police. Law enforcement officers are trained interrogators who can use your words against you. Even seemingly innocent statements can be twisted to make you appear guilty.

In Florida, the Constitution gives you the right to remain silent after an arrest. Exercise this right. Additionally, exercise your right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and tell the police you will only speak in the presence of your attorney. A skilled attorney can ensure you don’t say anything that can incriminate you.

2.    Assuming You Cannot Defend Yourself

The evidence against you might seem overwhelming. Even if you are innocent, you might believe there is no way to escape the situation. The truth is that these cases are not always as straightforward as they might seem. A knowledgeable Florida criminal defense attorney can examine your case and determine how you can defend yourself. For example, they can examine whether law enforcement entrapped you.

Other potential defenses in these cases include;

• Lack of intent
• Insufficient evidence
• Violations of constitutional rights

Do not assume you are guilty before consulting an attorney who can help you examine your defense options.

3.    Waiting Too Long To Contact an Attorney

If you are arrested in a Florida child sex sting operation, you need to act fast. Hire an attorney as soon as possible. Hiring a defense attorney as soon as possible can allow your attorney to review your case and develop an early and effective defense strategy. If you delay hiring an attorney, several things may go wrong. For example, evidence may disappear.

4.    Discussing Your Case With Others

Another mistake is discussing your case with other people. The prosecution can use anything you say to others to strengthen its case. The safest approach is to only discuss your case with your attorney. Do not post anything about your case on social media, as the prosecution may be monitoring your social media activity.

5.    Contacting the Alleged Victim

Finally, no matter how tempting it is, do not try to contact the person you were allegedly communicating with or the undercover officer involved in the sting. Such actions can lead to additional charges like obstruction of justice or witness tampering.

Contact Us for Legal Help

If you’ve been arrested in a sex sting operation, a skilled Orlando sex crime lawyer at Joshi Law Firm P.A. can evaluate your case and help you develop a strong defense strategy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.