Cyber Crime Lawyer In Gainesville, FL
Per Florida law, harassment means "to engage in a course of conduct directed at a specific person which causes substantial emotional distress to that person and serves no legitimate purpose." As social media progresses and becomes a more significant part of our daily lives, laws have evolved to account for internet harassment and stalking. Cyberstalking is a relatively new crime, and the laws surrounding this offense continue to evolve rapidly as technology advances. Nevertheless, Florida takes cyberstalking seriously, and the state's laws impose harsh penalties for those convicted of this cyber crime.
If you're facing allegations of cyberstalking, our experienced criminal defense lawyer, Adam Stout, can provide you with crucial legal guidance and representation. Contact Stout Defense, P.A. today to schedule a free case consultation with a dependable cyber crimes lawyer!
Florida Cyberstalking Laws
Florida Statute 784.048(1) outlines the state's cyberstalking rules. This statute defines the offense of cyberstalking as the act of communicating with, or causing the communication of words or images, a specific person through e-mail or other electronic communication causing substantial emotional distress serving no legitimate purpose or person. To be convicted of cyberstalking, a prosecutor must prove the perpetrator's offense was willful, malicious, repetitious, and directed at a specific person.
Types Of Cyberstalking Charges
The broad legal definition of cyberstalking can encompass many forms of misconduct, including sending threats, online sexual harassment, or accessing a person's online accounts. Allegations of cyberstalking include communications across many different technologies, including e-mail, text messaging, social media, and more. Some specific examples of cyberstalking include the following.
- Posting under the victim's name
- Sending sexually explicit pictures to the victim
- Posting sexually explicit pictures of the victim online
- Posting the victim's private information online
- Using technology to threaten or blackmail a person
- Cyberbullying
Potential Legal Penalties For Cyberstalking
Specific penalties for cyberstalking charges will vary depending on whether the alleged offender faces cyberstalking or aggravated cyberstalking charges.
According to Florida Statute §784.048 (2), "A person who willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows, harasses, or cyberstalks another person commits the offense of stalking, a misdemeanor of the first degree…" The penalties for a first-degree misdemeanor can include up to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines.
According to Florida Statute §784.048 (3), "A person who willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows, harasses, or cyberstalks another person and makes a credible threat to that person commits the offense of aggravated stalking, a felony of the third degree…" The penalties for a third-degree felony can include up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
How Our Gainesville Defense Lawyer Can Help
Being convicted of cyber crime, particularly a felony offense can have long-lasting consequences affecting a person for years to come. If you are facing cyberstalking charges, it is imperative to reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our skilled lawyer, Adam Stout, has the experience and dedication to mount a vigorous defense of your cyber crimes case. With a wide range of legal knowledge and experience as a prosecutor, Adam can help contest your criminal charges. Don't wait — contact Stout Defense, P.A. today to schedule a free, confidential consultation!