September 2018 Archives

We are frequently asked what the most important thing a person can so when he learns he is being investigated for solicitation of a minor. The use of a computer to engage in or attempt to engage in acts with a minor can be charged as several crimes. First, the accused can be charged with using a computer to have a minor send pornographic pictures. Likewise, the computer may be used to solicit a minor to meet for sexual encounter. Alternatively, a defendant can be charged with traveling to meet a minor for the purpose of engaging in an unlawful act. An additional charge of use of a communication device, namely a phone, to commit a felony is also typically charged. The vast majority of cases are charged under the Computer Pornography and Child Exploitation Prevention Act, § 847.0135, Fla. Stat. (2018). In addition to criminal penalties of up to fifteen years incarceration per court, potential damages of "at least $150,000" can be recovered in a civil lawsuit brought by a minor against the accused, pursuant to § 847.01357, Fla. Stat. (2018).