Criminal Charges In Seminole That Could Land You On Florida’s Sex Offender Registry
Facing any type of criminal charges in Seminole is a serious matter but the fall-out from alleged sexual offenses is particularly harsh. Even a seemingly minor crime could land you on the sex offenders registry. Find out more about how this could happen, the impacts that can result, and why you need a strong criminal defense.
Sexual Based Offenses In Seminole, Florida
Any type of alleged crime that involves a victim is going to involve serious criminal penalties in Seminole. When it comes to sexually-based offenses, prosecutors are particularly aggressive in pressing charges and making them stick. A conviction can be devastating due to both the severity of the sentence and the long-term impacts that result, due to being publicly known as a sex offender.
Under the Florida Statutes, a conviction on any of the following charges could result in your name being placed on the sex offenders registry, which is a part of the public record:
- Sexual assault, which includes acquaintance/date rape and spousal rape;
- Statutory rape, or sex with minors;
- Kidnapping and false imprisonment, in which you hold others against their wishes;
- Distributing or being in possession of child pornography;
- Child molestation, prostitution, and participation in child sex trafficking;
- Lewd and lascivious conduct, which includes indecent exposure and related offenses.
What Happens When You Are Placed On Florida’s Sex Offender Registry?
If you are convicted of a sexually-based offense in Clearwater, you will be required to report to the Pinellas County sheriff’s office so that your name can be placed on Florida’s Sex Offender Registry once you complete your prison sentence. Information you will need to provide includes:
- Your full name;
- Your address;
- A recent photo;
- Date of birth;
- Social security number;
- Description of your appearance, including sex, race, height, weight, eye color;
- Any tattoos or other unique identifying features you have;
- Finger and palm prints;
- Your driver’s license number and vehicle registration number;
- Your occupation and place of employment.
Not all of this information is publicly available but anyone can search to see your name, photo, and current address. Even if you were placed on the sex offenders registry for a relatively minor offense, such as urinating in public, you will be required to carry identification stating that you are on the registry and to check in with the sheriff’s office if you move or make any other changes that require updating the information about you on file. Simply being on the list has the potential to prevent you from obtaining housing, a job, or an education. It could also jeopardize your rights in Florida family court proceedings, such as in cases of divorce where child custody is an issue.
Let Us Help You Today
If you are facing sexually-based charges in Pinellas County, get The Reep Law Firm on your side immediately. We provide the experienced legal representation you need to help prevent a conviction and placement on Florida’s sex offenders registry. Call or contact our Seminole criminal defense attorney online and request a consultation today.
