A new area of sex crime investigations is taking place in cyberspace, as law enforcement agencies at both state and federal levels attempt to curb illegal Internet Solicitation of Minors. This crime can fall under several Florida statutes, including 800.004(6): LEWD OR LASCIVIOUS CONDUCT, as it applies to persons that solicit children under age 16 for sexual conduct. Enticing, luring, soliciting or otherwise getting young children to participate in sexual acts is illegal, even if no actual meeting or sexual act occurs.
Computer Sting Operations
Reaching underage children for sexual solicitation purposes is easy today as youngsters freely use their computers, cell phones and other internet-related devices to “hook up” with other friends. A vulnerable and trusting child may be easy prey to an internet predator looking for sexual favors or other illegal contact with minors. Even if the suspect has no knowledge of the real age of the child, they can be prosecuted under laws against internet solicitation of a minor. To combat this type of sex crime, computer sting operations are set up by local and national law enforcement agencies.
Police agencies have developed ingenious computer sting operations in which they may pretend to be an innocent child online as they try to get information for arrests of persons who are using computers with the intent to connect with underage children for sexual contact. The electronic media sources used today by law enforcement include:
- Social media websites like Facebook, Twitter and Craigslist
- Email providers
- Search engine companies like Google, Yahoo and Bing
- Cell phone/internet services that can provide text messaging (sexting) connections
Defending Against Florida Internet Sex Crimes
In a computer sting operation, law enforcement can easily track down and arrest persons that use computers for illicit sex solicitation of minors under age 18. Having a good defense is essential. Musca Law attorneys that work with clients accused of this sex crime have years of experience in this area of Florida and federal laws. They will explain your rights and mount the most potent legal defense possible so you can avoid a charge that will ruin your life forever. As a felony with mandatory prison sentencing, a conviction on this sex crime will lock you in prison for 5 years on each count. If travel for a meeting with a minor is involved, you could get a 15 year sentence with a second degree felony charge.
A conviction means mandatory prison time on a third degree felony for each charge. Call Musca Law for a free consultation to discuss your case at (800)687-2252, or use the website contact form 24/7. Musca Law offices are located throughout Florida, and in Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami and Tampa.
