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 a Florida child sex sting operation, you may feel confused, panicked, and unsure of the steps to take next. While such feelings are understandable, it is vital to remember that you need to protect your rights and start preparing your defense.

Below, we discuss what to do if you are arrested in a Florida child sex sting operation.

1.    Stay Calm and Invoke Your Right To Remain Silent

Getting arrested during a child sex sting operation can be scary. However, how you react in those initial moments can significantly impact your case. While it is understandable to want to explain your side of the story, the best thing you can do is to stay cool and avoid explaining yourself. Anything you say to the police can and will be used against you. Even an innocent explanation can be misinterpreted or taken out of context.

2.    Avoid Answering Police Questions Without an Attorney Present

If the police begin questioning you, politely but firmly inform them that you are pleading the Fifth, or, in other words, that you are invoking your right to remain silent. Tell the police that you will not answer any questions without a lawyer. In Florida, once you request an attorney, the police must stop questioning you. A skilled Florida criminal defense attorney can protect you from self-incrimination and ensure the police follow the law.

3.    Understand the Seriousness of the Charges

Florida has harsh penalties for crimes involving the solicitation of minors. It is vital that you understand the potential consequences you risk facing if you are convicted. Common charges people face include;

• Online solicitation of a minor
• Traveling to meet a minor

These two offenses are prohibited under Florida Statutes section 847.0135. Being convicted of online solicitation of a minor or traveling to meet a minor can come with mandatory prison time, sex offender registration, and long-lasting restrictions on where you can work and live. That is why it is vital to retain a skilled criminal defense lawyer who has experience defending against child sex crime allegations.

4.    Understand the Possible Defenses

Not everyone arrested in a child sex sting operation is guilty. There may be several ways to defend yourself, including;

• Entrapment (Florida Statutes section 777.201)
• Lack of intent
• Insufficient evidence
• Mistaken identity

An experienced defense attorney will review the evidence against you and explore possible defense strategies.

If you are arrested in a Florida child sex sting operation, it is vital that you involve an attorney as fast as possible. The sooner you retain an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case.

Contact an Orlando Sex Crime Lawyer

If you have been arrested in a Florida child sex sting operation, contact an Orlando sex crime lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, P.A., for help protecting your legal rights and defending yourself.