Sex crimes are serious offenses and people accused of committing them face the possibility of significant punishment. A conviction of this type of crime can mean that a person will have his or her name added to the sex offender registry indefinitely, and he or she may also face jail time and/or have to pay a high fine. That’s not to mention the impact it can have on the individual’s personal and professional lives. That’s why those facing charges of sex crimes need a comprehensive defense strategy. A recent undercover operation here in Florida resulted in one man’s arrest, and he is likely focused on preparing an effective criminal defense.
According to authorities, the man has been charged with coercion or enticement of a minor. He was on probation for a different sex crime involving a minor over 10 years ago. Police allege that the man conversed with an undercover agent via social media and requested that they meet, believing that the agent was actually a 14-year-old girl. Officials say that the man came to the designated meeting spot on a bicycle, where he was arrested.
The man went to prison for his first offense back in 2007 and was released in 2015. He remained on probation but authorities want that revoked because of this new alleged offense. Officials say he plead no contest to the first offense, but has not yet entered a plea for this most recent arrest.
Whatever may have happened in this case, this man is entitled to defend himself in court and is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. A conviction doesn’t only result in direct punishment from the criminal justice system, but can also affect a person’s future ability to obtain employment, get a loan or secure housing. Those who face similar charges of sex crimes here in Florida need to have a strong criminal defense plan in order to facilitate the best potential outcome.