Domestic violence does not care how old you are, what your sexual preference is, what color you are, or what gender you identify as. Because anyone is vulnerable to becoming a victim of domestic violence, sometimes children under the age of 18 may seek to file a restraining order against their abuser. If you or…
In the state of Florida, a person can be charged with exposure of sexual organs—also known as indecent exposure—for a variety of reasons ranging from nude sun-bathing to streaking to public urination. However, in many situations, the prosecutor is obligated to provide evidence that the defendant had lascivious intent in their actions. Every person’s case…
Sex offender registration is considered to be a “collateral consequence” of convictions of sexual crimes in Florida. This means that the courts don’t have to warn you that you could be required to register as a sex offender by pleading guilty or after conviction. Therefore, many defendants don’t realize that by pleading guilty, they are…
Crimes against the state cannot be excused because the defendant claims the victim consented; however, there are a few situations in which a victim’s consent may be a valid defense to a criminal charge. In cases of rape or sexual battery, not having the victim’s consent is an element of the offense. Without being able…
The coronavirus pandemic has shifted how almost all institutions operate, including businesses across all industries and government agencies. Even non-essential law enforcement services have changed to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout the United States. However, when it comes to registering as a sex offender, alleged offenders are met with all kinds of directions. Many…
A stunning 200 people and counting have been charged in connection to prostitution crimes that took place in a Jupiter and Martin County massage parlors. The Orchids of Asia Day Spa located off of US Highway 1 is one of several massage spas that have been shut down in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie…
In 2017, West Palm Beach police officers knew about several possible prostitution houses throughout the city. It wasn’t until August of the following year that a victim of human trafficking released the locations of the brothels and dropped the names of the people running them. The victim told officers about three residences where the bosses…
Last year, Massage Envy drew national attention after a BuzzFeed investigation uncovered over 180 accusations of sexual assault at their locations across the country. Recently, several more women have come forward having experienced molestation and other acts in Massage Envy locations throughout Florida. In May 2017, two women signed up for the mother-daughter Mother’s Day…
Year after year, the Sunshine State is a top choice for people looking to move away. Its glorious beaches and year-round warm weather draw many people from up north, while diverse urban areas often attract people from less populated cities. However, like with any other state, parts of Florida may be unsafe to live in…
Sexual harassment is still a prevalent issue in the workplace for women in all industries, even in the Florida Senate. Although sexual harassment is illegal in all workplaces under federal and state anti-discrimination laws, many victims fail to receive justice because the courts fail to find evidence of wrongdoing. Recently, several women in state politics…
