Under Florida law, the penalties associated with a conviction for Traveling to Meet a Minor are extremely harsh. This crime is a second degree felony punishable by 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. There is a statutory minimum sentence of 21 months in Florida State Prison. Additionally, you will be required to register as a sex offender if convicted under this law.
Recently, the legal team at Taracks & Associates has seen several people accused of this law after an internet “sting”. Typically, the police will pose undercover as a minor looking to engage in sex. Other times, police will pose as a parent of a minor looking to help the minor find sex. The police will then exchange emails back and forth with the defendant in an effort to get him or her to agree to travel to meet the child to engage in one of the aforementioned illegal sex acts.
So what can you do if you are accused of this crime? First off, it is important that you fight these charges aggressively for several reasons. The penalties include prison, sex offender registration, and the legal status of “convicted felon.” Second, this is a crime that is frowned upon by society, making it virtually impossible to find a job in any field if you are convicted. At Taracks & Associates our team has over forty years of experience fighting sex charges for our clients. Additionally, we have handled high profile “traveling to meet a minor” cases in the past. Our team knows how the police set up these stings and what the various defenses to be examined are, including entrapment.
We know how important it is to protect your reputation, career, and future.Call us today at 813-281-2897 for a free, confidential consultation. We have three former prosecutors on staff waiting to take your call and help you through this time. We know the law and the system and will fight to have these charges dropped or reduced as soon as possible to help you get back to your life. Taracks & Associates – The Advocate For You.