The National Football League has had a lot of controversy over the last few weeks. Much of the controversy arises from the Adrian Peterson situation involving alleged child abuse allegations. People around the country have been either for or against whether or not corporal punishment and discipline for children should be up to the parents, or if the State should get involved in these matters. Florida is no exception to the rule regarding child abuse.
In Florida, child abuse is under chapter 827. The definition of child abuse is 1) Intentional infliction of physical or mental injury upon a child; 2) An intentional act that could reasonably be expected to result in physical or mental injury to a child; or 3) Active encouragement of any person to commit an act that results or could reasonably be expected to result in physical or mental injury to a child.
These charges are serious in nature. An investigation can be both civil and criminal. If there is alleged child abuse, an injunction may be issued where a parent does not see their children because of a pending action. In addition, a dependency action can be taken through the Department of Children and Families. In this proceeding, the State gets involved and sees if parental rights should be terminated and what should go on between the children and parents.
These allegations can also lead to criminal charges. Criminal charges can be felonies, and may be punishable by prison. The State will do an investigation and the children are usually interviewed and a detective is assignment to manage the case.
Child abuse charges are very serious in nature. If you, or someone you know are charged with a crime, please contact the office of Taracks & Associates at (813) 281-2897 for a free consultation with regards to the charge.