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Murder-for-hire prosecutions represent some of the most aggressive uses of federal criminal law, often combining firearms allegations with expansive theories of interstate commerce to impose mandatory life sentences. In these cases, seemingly local acts such as driving a car or exchanging drugs can become the foundation for sweeping federal jurisdiction and extreme punishment. A recent decision from a Florida court demonstrates how courts apply these doctrines to uphold convictions arising from a contract killing carried out entirely within one state. If you are charged with a violent crime, you should consider consulting with an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney to assess how evidentiary rules may affect your case.

Facts and Procedural History

Allegedly, the defendants were involved in a plot to kill a rival drug dealer in exchange for cash and controlled substances. The government contended that one defendant arranged the killing and paid the others money and cocaine to carry it out, also supplying a firearm to be used in the attack.

Reportedly, the shooting occurred on a public roadway when the defendants pulled alongside the victim’s vehicle and opened fire, killing two occupants and injuring a third. The government asserted that the roadway formed part of a federally designated highway system and that the defendants used a private automobile to carry out the killing. Continue Reading ›

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Federal firearms statutes dramatically increase sentencing exposure when prosecutors successfully link a weapon to a qualifying crime of violence. Disputes over what offenses meet that definition often determine whether defendants face decades in additional prison time or even life sentences. A recent decision from the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida addresses this high-stakes issue in the context of cyberstalking allegations that resulted in death. If you are charged with a firearm offense, it is wise to talk to a Tampa criminal defense attorney to understand how these classifications may affect your case.

Facts and Procedural History

Allegedly, the government charged the defendant in a superseding indictment with multiple firearm-related offenses, including discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, conspiring to use and carry a firearm during a crime of violence, and causing the death of a person during a crime of violence. Each of those charges depended on whether an underlying cyberstalking offense qualified as a crime of violence under federal law.

Reportedly, the predicate offense alleged by the government involved cyberstalking resulting in death, charged under federal statutes that prohibit using electronic communications or interstate facilities to place another person in reasonable fear of death or serious bodily injury. The indictment alleged that the victim ultimately died as a result of the charged course of conduct. Continue Reading ›

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When the State prosecutes a crime, it must adhere strictly to the charges set forth in the information, as due process requires that defendants receive clear notice of the specific crimes they must defend against at trial. As such, if the State proceeds on a theory that differs from the offense actually charged, even subtle statutory differences can result in reversible error. A recent decision from a Florida court illustrates how convictions may be overturned when the evidence and theory of prosecution do not align with the charging document. If you are facing firearm-related charges, you should consult a Tampa criminal defense attorney to ensure your rights are fully protected.

Case Setting

Allegedly, the defendant went uninvited to her daughter’s apartment complex, accompanied by another family member, because she was concerned about the daughter’s relationship and wanted to persuade her to leave the residence. An argument developed in the parking lot between the daughter and the accompanying family member, which escalated into physical pushing and shoving.

Reportedly, the defendant became involved in the altercation while carrying a firearm in a hip holster, which she routinely wore for personal protection. During the physical struggle, the firearm discharged and struck the daughter, causing injury. The evidence presented at trial conflicted as to how the firearm came out of the holster and who caused it to fire. Continue Reading ›

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When criminal defendants challenge their convictions, courts must carefully evaluate whether they received constitutionally effective representation and whether any claimed deficiencies truly undermined the reliability of the verdict. A recent decision from a Florida court illustrates how claims of ineffective assistance of counsel are analyzed when a defendant argues that jury unanimity may have been compromised by prosecutorial argument and verdict form structure. If you or a loved one is facing serious felony charges or considering postconviction relief, it is important to consult a Tampa criminal defense attorney who understands Florida appellate and postconviction law.

Facts and Procedural History

Allegedly, the State charged the defendant with sexual battery of a child based on conduct said to have occurred during two separate incidents in the fall of 2016. The charging document alleged a single count encompassing penetration that could have occurred either anally or vaginally within a defined timeframe.

Reportedly, the State presented testimony from multiple witnesses at trial, including three child witnesses. The primary victim testified that one incident involved anal penetration at the defendant’s home and that a later incident involved vaginal penetration. Two additional child witnesses testified to similar conduct occurring at the same location and described comparable statements made by the defendant when they told him to stop. Continue Reading ›

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Child sexual offense cases often hinge on evidentiary decisions that determine what the jury hears and how the State proves its allegations. Among the most consequential of these decisions is whether a court may admit a child’s out-of-court statements years later, long after the child has reached adulthood. A recent ruling from a Florida court demonstrates how courts interpret the child hearsay statute and resolve disputes about witness age, reliability, and statutory purpose in high-stakes retrials involving serious sexual offenses. If you are charged with a sex crime, you should consult a Tampa sex crime defense attorney who understands how to protect your rights.

Case Setting

Allegedly, the defendant was charged with multiple sex offenses involving his neighbor’s three daughters, who were between eight and eleven years old when the abuse occurred. The State filed a notice of intent to introduce child hearsay statements for each victim under section 90.803(23) of the Florida Evidence Code.

Reportedly, the trial court conducted the required hearing to determine the reliability of the statements. The court found that the time, content, and circumstances of the statements provided adequate safeguards of reliability and concluded that the out-of-court statements were trustworthy and admissible. Continue Reading ›

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Access to Florida’s drug court system can play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of a criminal case, particularly for defendants whose conduct stems from substance abuse challenges. When a trial court improperly denies admission to drug court, the consequences can significantly alter a defendant’s exposure to penalties and available treatment options. A recent decision from a Florida court highlights the importance of ensuring that trial courts follow the statutory eligibility criteria and avoid unsupported decisions lacking competent, substantial evidence. If you are accused of a drug offense, it is in your best interest to consult with a Tampa criminal defense attorney because errors in drug court eligibility rulings can be corrected through appellate intervention. Individuals facing similar issues should consult a Tampa drug crime defense attorney as soon as possible.

Facts and Procedural History

Allegedly, the defendant petitioned for a writ of certiorari after the county court denied his request for admission into drug court. The defendant argued that the ruling departed from the essential requirements of law because it lacked competent substantial evidence and conflicted with the governing statutory criteria.

Reportedly, the defendant’s motion for drug court admission cited section 948.08(6)(b), Florida Statutes, which sets forth the eligibility requirements for voluntary admission into a pretrial substance abuse education and treatment program. The motion asserted that the defendant had a documented substance abuse problem, was amenable to treatment, was charged with a nonviolent felony, and had no more than two prior nonviolent felony convictions. Continue Reading ›

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Federal sex offense charges carry some of the harshest penalties in the criminal justice system. Even when sentencing guidelines recommend a relatively short term, a judge can impose a much longer sentence based on the nature of the conduct, the defendant’s history, and the perceived danger to the community. Defendants often believe that once they plead guilty, their sentencing outcome is fixed, but appellate courts sometimes review whether a district court acted within its discretion in imposing a lengthy term. A recent Florida sex crime case shows how appellate courts approach these issues and why an experienced federal defense attorney is essential in protecting a defendant’s rights. If you are accused of committing a federal offense involving a minor, a Tampa federal criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the government’s evidence and pursue the best possible result.

Factual and Procedural History

It is reported that the defendant engaged in sexually explicit online conversations with undercover Homeland Security agents posing as a thirteen-year-old girl. Between January and March of 2024, the defendant used the social media platform Kik to send dozens of obscene messages, photographs, and videos. It is alleged that he transmitted four pictures or videos depicting male genitalia and two videos showing adults engaged in sexual acts. The defendant repeatedly asked the individual he believed to be a minor to send nude images and attempted several times to arrange a meeting for sexual activity.

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Post-conviction challenges in federal criminal cases are often complex and narrowly limited. Many defendants believe they can revisit issues already decided at trial or on direct appeal, but federal courts apply strict standards to such requests. A recent decision from a court in Florida illustrates how difficult it is to reopen a final judgment under Rule 60(b)(6) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. If you have been convicted of a federal offense and are considering an appeal or post-conviction motion, a skilled Tampa federal criminal defense attorney can evaluate your options and help you protect your rights.

Case Setting

It is reported that the petitioner was indicted on a single count of possession of child pornography, involving images and videos stored on a Sandisk USB flash drive, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2). Prosecutors offered a plea agreement that required the petitioner to plead guilty and acknowledge a ten-year minimum sentence based on a prior conviction for the same offense. In return, the government agreed to recommend a reduction for acceptance of responsibility.

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A federal firearm charge is one of the most serious situations a defendant can encounter. A single conviction can mean years in federal prison, especially when a judge imposes a sentence above the recommended guidelines. Defendants often believe that a guilty plea ends their chances of defending themselves, but post-conviction motions and appeals can sometimes provide a second opportunity to challenge unfair rulings. A recent decision from a Florida court shows how courts approach these challenges and why building a strong defense early is essential. If you are accused of illegally possessing a firearm, a Tampa federal criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Factual and Procedural History

It is reported that the defendant was involved in a road rage incident in January 2023 in which he exchanged gunfire with another driver. Allegedly, during the altercation, the defendant mistakenly fired into a third vehicle occupied by two adolescents, narrowly missing their heads and injuring one of them with shattered glass.

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In Florida, certain repeat offenders may be sentenced more harshly under the state’s “violent career criminal” statute. When prior convictions are used to enhance a sentence, disputes often arise over whether those convictions qualify under the law. Recently, the Florida Supreme Court issued a decision that clarifies how courts interpret predicate offenses in violent career criminal cases, particularly where juvenile escape convictions are involved. If you are facing serious firearm charges or enhanced penalties, it is critical to consult with a Tampa criminal defense attorney who can evaluate your record and protect your rights.

History of the Case

It is reported that the defendant was convicted by a jury of being a violent career criminal in possession of a firearm. The incident arose in 2019 after the defendant allegedly brandished a firearm during an argument and discharged multiple rounds into the air.

Allegedly, the State sought to establish the defendant’s status as a violent career criminal by presenting evidence of three prior convictions: aggravated battery in 2012, burglary in 2005, and escape in 1995. The defendant did not dispute that the aggravated battery and burglary convictions qualified as predicate offenses under the statute. However, the defense challenged the use of the 1995 conviction, arguing it arose under the juvenile code and did not meet the statutory definition of “escape” for violent career criminal purposes. Continue Reading ›