In today’s digital world, a misunderstanding or a momentary misjudgment online can lead to devastating, life-altering consequences. Being accused of internet solicitation is a shocking and terrifying experience. You may feel isolated, confused, and deeply worried about your future, reputation, and family. In these critical moments, it is vital to remember that an accusation is not a conviction.

Knowing how to handle internet solicitation charges in Tampa is the first step toward protecting yourself. The choices you make right now are critical. It’s important to seek the counsel of a skilled criminal defense attorney in Florida to help you navigate the legal landscape. They can provide the information you need to understand the challenges ahead and help you prepare a solid defense strategy to beat the charges.

Understanding Internet Solicitation Laws in Florida

In Florida, what is commonly called “internet solicitation” is primarily governed by a specific and serious statute. Florida Statute § 847.0135 makes it illegal to use a computer or any other electronic device to solicit, entice, or lure a child—or someone you believe to be a child—to engage in sexual conduct.

To earn you a conviction, the prosecutor must prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • You used a computer, network, or other device.
  • You knowingly communicated with another person.
  • You believed that person was a minor under the age of 18.
  • You intended to solicit or lure that person into prohibited sexual activity.

The law focuses heavily on your state of mind and your intent. A simple, inappropriate conversation may not be enough to prove the crime; the prosecution must show a clear purpose to entice a minor for sexual reasons. Having the expertise of a skilled legal expert is your first line of defense in beating the charges.

The Rise of Law Enforcement Sting Operations

Many internet solicitation arrests in the Tampa Bay area are not the result of a complaint from an actual victim. Instead, they are based on proactive online sting operations done by local and federal law enforcement agencies. In these stings, an undercover officer of the law creates a fake profile and poses as a teenager on social media sites, chat rooms, or messaging apps.

Law enforcement agencies nationwide, from Hillsborough County to cities where criminal defense lawyers in Fresno practice, are increasingly using these online sting operations. These operations in Florida have specific legal implications and can sometimes cross the line into entrapment. The officer may encourage or pressure a target into making incriminating statements or agreeing to meet in person.

The Severe Penalties You Could Be Facing

A charge of soliciting a minor over the internet is treated with extreme seriousness by Florida prosecutors. A conviction carries penalties that can follow you for the rest of your life. This offense is typically charged as a second-degree felony, which is punishable by:

  •  Up to 15 years of incarceration.
  •  Up to 15 years of probation.
  •  A fine of up to $10,000.

Beyond the prison time and fines, a conviction has other significant consequences. It will lead to a life-long criminal record, making it difficult to find employment or housing. Most significantly, a sentence often requires you to register as a sex offender, which comes with a deep social stigma and imposes strict, lifelong reporting requirements.

Building a Defense Against Solicitation Charges

Despite the serious nature of these charges, robust defenses are available. Your criminal defense attorney can conduct a thorough investigation into case specifics and challenge the prosecution’s evidence to reduce its credibility.

Potential defenses can include:

  • Entrapment: This is a key defense in sting operation cases. You can argue that you were not predisposed to commit the crime and that the undercover officer’s conduct and persuasion induced you to act.
  • Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to commit a sexual offense. We can challenge the evidence by arguing that the online conversations were ambiguous, taken out of context, or did not amount to criminal solicitation.
  • Mistaken Identity: In some cases, it may be possible to argue that you were not the person using the device when the alleged messages were sent.

A Caring and Passionate Advocate on Your Side

Facing these charges is an intensely personal and stressful ordeal. A legal expert at Patrick B. Courtney can provide caring, non-judgmental, and passionate representation. I am here to be your advocate and your guide through this challenging process. My approach is to treat every client with the dignity and respect they deserve, ensuring your side of the story is heard and your constitutional rights are protected.

I know that good people can find themselves in difficult situations, and so I commit to being a generous and approachable ally, using my legal knowledge to fight for the best possible outcome for you. The challenges of defending against digital accusations are something all attorneys must face, even criminal defense lawyers in Fresno, dealing with California’s distinct laws. My focus is entirely on providing you with a robust defense in Tampa.

Call for a FREE Consultation

The time to act is now. Do not speak to law enforcement or make decisions about your case without understanding your rights and options. Call me, Patrick B. Courtney, P.A., today at 813-252-1529 for a FREE and completely confidential consultation. Let me listen to your story and explain how I can help you fight these serious charges.