While the Internet is a beneficial and reliable form of technology, it is also a platform for criminal allegations. When an individual in Florida or elsewhere is accused of an Internet crime, this could mean facing serious criminal charges that comes with harsh penalties.
For example, what is “cyber stalking“ and what are the potential penalties for this crime? According to Florida statue section 784.048, “cyber stalking“ means to engage in conduct that is used to communicate or to cause communication through words, image or language through electronic mail or electronic communication. This conduct is directed towards a specific person, causing substantial emotional distress to that person, and this conduct serves no legitimate purpose.
A person found guilty of willfully, maliciously and repeatedly cyber stalking another person could be charged with a misdemeanor in the first degree. According to section 755.082, this could result in imprisonment for up to one year. When a person is found guilty of willfully, maliciously and repeatedly cyber stalking another person and makes credible threats to that person, that person may have committed aggravated stalking, which is a felony in the third degree. This carries a penalty of imprisonment of up to five years.
In the age of social media and communicating through the Internet, it might seem like a simple act. However, when a person is accused of cyber stalking, it can be considered a very serious situation. It not only results in harsh penalties, but could also impact the personal and professional life of the accused. It is vital to explore defense options when facing such allegations. This could help a person avoid serious penalties.
