Internet sting cases typically revolve around sex offenses that allegedly occur online; police and law enforcement agencies use what most would consider as underhanded tactics in an effort to "trap" individuals who are in many cases law abiding, upstanding people. When you need a Lake County internet sting attorney to provide outstanding legal guidance and representation, you can count on Adams, Luka, & Benton to fight vigorously on your behalf and protect your legal rights.
When police suspect a person is communicating or engaging in an unsavory way with someone who is under age on the internet, they often resort to "sneaky" tactics in order to catch that person and as a result, have criminal charges filed. This is often the case when someone is arrested for traveling to meet a minor. The Computer Pornography and Child Exploitation Prevention Act in Florida Statute Section 847.0135 makes it unlawful for an adult to travel to meet a minor; in fact, it is a felony offense that incurs extremely harsh punishment for those convicted.
Internet Stings in Lake County and Throughout FloridaSome of the tactics used by police to catch those they believe are offenders include posing as a minor child or teen on social media sites, placing advertisements on sites such as Craigslist to "entice" potential offenders, even sending out solicitous messages on cell phones or forums. The goal is to get the alleged offender to commit a crime. Unfortunately, this often results in someone falling for the sting, an individual who under normal circumstances would never have thought of engaging in illegal sexual behavior with a minor. The fact is, law enforcement often does the enticing, rather than the individual they are attempting to catch. Entrapment is very common, and unfortunately often results in innocent people being charged with crimes they did not commit.
Potential Consequences for Those Convicted for Traveling to Meet a MinorInternet stings often result in charges of traveling to meet a minor. The penalties are severe if found guilty, and may include fines of as much as $10,000, up to 15 years in prison, and the requirement to register as a sex offender. The mandatory minimum for this offense in Florida is 21 months in prison. Other offenses that may result in criminal charges and involve the internet may include solicitation of a minor, trading child pornography, possession/distribution of child pornography, and more.
Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton TodayAs experienced Lake County internet sting lawyers, we know how police work in an effort to catch those who they perceive to be criminals. This work often involves entrapment, which is a possible defense for those facing criminal charges. We understand these matters are extremely sensitive, and can result in a negative impact on your reputation, career, and more. We will fight for your freedom and future, always using discretion and protecting your privacy to the greatest extent possible. Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton now for a free consultation at (352) 787-2101.
I would like thank my attorney Thomas Luka. I knew from the beginning I had the right guy in my corner. While celebrating with family and friends at a Public Park in Seminole County, a fight broke out among various people. Myself, and a good friend, broke up the fight and the instigators left. Six months later, I was wrongly accused as the person who started the fight. The first attorney I hired could not even get a response from the State Attorney handling the case. Someone referred me to Tom and I felt comfortable at his demeanor and reactions.
After conversations with Tom, who knew I would settle for nothing less than a FULL DISMISSAL due to my innocence, I hired him. His firm Adams, Luka, & Benton did the due diligence by interviewing witnesses and the police who were on the scene, as well as starting a dialogue with the State Attorney. After gathering statements from witnesses, Tom was able to present a strong argument on my behalf to the State Attorney on why the case should be dismissed. If the State Attorney was not willing to dismiss the case, Tom was ready to take the case to trial.
The result by Thomas Luka: Case Dismissed.
I am 53 years old with a spotless record and glad to keep it that way thanks to the time, effort, hard work, and professionalism of Adams, Luka, & Benton.