Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Man Gets Years in Prison for Promoting Fake Concerts in Fort Lauderdale
It is easier to commit white-collar crime than many people realize. Wire fraud, mail fraud, identity theft, and similar crimes may lead to felony charges and lengthy prison sentences – and this is something a South Florida man recently discovered after promoting what prosecutors call “bogus concerts.” What happens if you promote a fake… Read More »
Penalties for Identity Theft in Fort Lauderdale
Identity theft is an example of “white collar crime” in Fort Lauderdale, and the penalties can be quite significant. While many assume that stealing a person’s identity is only possible with complex computer software, there are many ways to commit this offense. What happens if you have been accused of identity theft in Florida?… Read More »
Can I Face Criminal Charges for Leaving My Kids in the Car in Fort Lauderdale?
The simple act of leaving your kids in the car can lead to serious criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale. This is something that parents in Florida should be aware of, especially during the warm, summer months. A couple in South Florida recently discovered these consequences, and they were arrested as a result. What if… Read More »
Understanding the “Right to Remain Silent” in Fort Lauderdale
Whenever Fort Lauderdale police question you in connection with a criminal investigation, you have the right to remain silent. The police must advise you of this right before conducting a custodial interrogation. But you always have the right to refuse to answer questions even in non-custodial settings. Florida Man Receives 15-Year Sentence After Volunteering… Read More »
Can Past Threats Justify a Domestic Violence Injunction in Fort Lauderdale?
Domestic violence injunctions are a legal tool to protect individuals who are in “imminent danger” of abuse. Put another way, injunctions are for current victims of domestic violence. A Florida court is not allowed to issue an injunction based on “stale” accusations that are considered too remote in time. Florida Appeals Court: No Evidence… Read More »
Does It Matter How Far “Over” the Limit You Are in a Florida DUI Case?
Recently, the Florida Highway Patrol arrested a 27-year-old Hillsborough County woman on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). The circumstances were notable. According to press reports, the suspect was driving the wrong way when the FHP pulled her over. And a subsequent breath test suggested she was intoxicated well past the legal limit… Read More »
Could I Lose My Job Following a Domestic Violence Arrest in Fort Lauderdale?
An arrest for domestic violence carries a significant stigma. Even if Florida prosecutors ultimately drop the charges, or a jury acquits the defendant following a trial, the mere allegation can still follow a person for months or years. This can lead to additional consequences outside the scope of the criminal justice system, such as… Read More »
The Importance of Due Process in Florida Domestic Violence Injunction Hearings
Before issuing a final domestic violence injunction, a Florida judge must hold a hearing, at which both the petitioner and the respondent are allowed to present evidence. The petitioner is the person alleging they are a past or likely future victim of domestic violence. The respondent is the person accused. The final hearing proceeds… Read More »
Ex-Royal Caribbean Employee Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Producing Child Pornography
Medical professionals define voyeurism as an interest in observing unsuspecting people while they undress, are naked, or engage in sexual activities. Many people suffer from voyeuristic disorder, which means they regularly have intrusive thoughts of engaging in voyeurism, even if they never act upon them. Unfortunately, some people do act upon these thoughts and… Read More »
Famous Rapper Successfully Argues Self-Defense After Airport Brawl
Florida has some of the strongest self-defense laws in the nation, and this is good news for anyone facing accusations of violent crimes in Fort Lauderdale. If you harmed someone because you were trying to protect yourself or someone you love, you should not face any penalties. The strength of Florida’s self-defense laws recently… Read More »