In Florida, sexual assault is a felony crime with a mandatory prison sentence. Convicted offenders are required to register as a sexual offender or sexual predator for life. There are many other aftereffects a suspect will endure forever if these charges are not vigorously fought by an experienced sex crimes attorney.
Florida Sex Crime Law
The 2011 Florida Statutes include Sexual Battery in Chapter 794.001 of TITLE SCVI CRIMES legislation. The law is used to prosecute persons that have been arrested for many types of sex crimes. Assault may include rape, date rape, spousal rape, child rape and other nonconsensual sexual activity. The sex offender registry is maintained by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and convicted sex offenders must maintain current information about their whereabouts several times a year, for the rest of their life. There are 48 hour time limits that must be met for certain notifications that are required, such as moving to a new location. Vehicle information, home address, a headshot photograph and employment are also recorded.
The Florida Dept of Law Enforcement (FDLE) recorded the following statistics for the year 2010:
• Rape by Force 5074
• Attempted Rape 295
• Forcible Sodomy 1173
• Forcible Fondling 3343
• Total Forcible Sex Offenses 9885
Sexual Assault Penalties
Sexual assault penalties include prison time and being listed as a sex offender on the convicted person’s permanent criminal record. Increases in prison time may occur as follows:
- If deadly force or weapon was used
- If victim is a child under 12, it is a capital offense with life in prison or possible the death penalty
- Repeat offenders may receive a life sentence in prison
- Caretakers of victims that are disabled or helpless get tougher sentences
- Authority figures that take advantage of victims sexually receive longer sentences
Many possible results can be expected with prison time from 5 years to life. A strong defense should be made immediately if you are even questioned about possible sexual assault crimes in Florida. Having the right legal representation may greatly reduce the severity and number of actual charges you may face.
Musca Law has an experienced sex crime team with extensive experience working with clients that have been accused of sexual assault. They use forensics experts, specially trained sex crime investigators and other resources in defense strategies. It is important to discuss your situation only with a criminal defense attorney in order to protect your freedom and Constitutional rights. Call (800) 687-2252 now to talk with a Musca Law legal representative with a track record of results. Use the website contact form for electronic inquiries. Musca Law has offices throughout the State of Florida, including the major cities of Tampa, Miami, Orlando and Jacksonville.
