Eleven Arrested in Child Pornography Sting in Polk County
A retired teacher and a former Walt Disney company employee are among 11 suspects arrested in a Polk County child pornography sting operation. Florida takes child pornography charges extremely seriously and the law requires severe punishments for anyone violating these child welfare laws.
Strict punishments mean that those who are falsely accused often have a hard time proving their innocence. Criminal defendants facing child pornography charges can benefit from The Umansky Law Firm’s services.
Examining the Charges
Those arrested in the Polk County operation also include a 48-year-old bartender and an 84-year-old retired mechanical engineer. The youngest suspect was only 16. The group is facing some 600 different charges that include possessing and trading child pornography.
Most of the charges are focused on only two of the suspects, both of whom are already registered sexual predators. The former Disney employee confessed to possessing more than two dozen computer files containing pornographic images of minors (under the age of 18).
Child Pornography and Florida Law
The state prohibits the production, possession, or viewing of material that depicts minors engaging in sexual activity. These crimes are felonies, though the exact punishments depend upon the nature of the offense.
The possession or viewing of such material is a third-degree felony, which can result in a prison sentence of up to five years, and a fine that does not exceed $5,000. Offenses classified as second-degree felonies can result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a fine that does not exceed $10,000. Additionally, certain crimes involving child pornography requires those convicted to register in the sex offender database.
Sex Crime Defense Lawyers in Polk County
Anyone charged with a crime in the United States is innocent until they either plead guilty or hear a guilty conviction. The choice of a reputable criminal defense attorney can make the difference between a lifetime of legal trouble or an acquittal. Attorneys use different strategies that include challenging the original charges or questioning the way law enforcement obtained the evidence.
An experienced criminal lawyer who has handled child pornography cases may be able to work out plea arrangements that result in lesser penalties. Those charged with violating Florida’s child pornography laws need the assistance of a criminal defense attorney. A free consultation with the Umansky Law Firm will give you an idea of what to do next if you’ve been charged with a felony.
At The Umansky Law Firm, our goal is to make sure your arrest does not wreck your life. We are former prosecutors who can give you an honest evaluation of your case. Call our office for a free case evaluation today.
