Lake County Internet Sting Lawyer

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.

Some 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.

Internet 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.

As 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.