With the use of technology rising so rapidly, the crime of video voyeurism is being charged more than ever. Due to the nature of these charges, it is imperative that you find an experienced criminal defense attorney to defend you as soon as possible. While you may contend that these charges were not committed in a sexual manner, the State Attorney will prosecute them in the same manner as a serious sex crime. If you have been arrested for video voyeurism in Fort Walton Beach, more than likely your name and picture has been blasted all over news and social media websites, making it difficult to defend yourself.
My name is Tim Flaherty. My partner’s name is Brandy Merrifield. We are Fort Walton Beach video voyeurism defense lawyers. Call us at (850) 243-6097 to schedule your free consultation to see how we can help get your life and reputation back on track.
What is Video Voyeurism?
If you are under 19 years old and commit video voyeurism, you will be charged with a 1st degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in county jail.
If you are 19 years old or older and commit video voyeurism, you will be charged with a 3rd degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison.
The level of felony and potential penalties will be increased if there were minor children involved. To prove the crime of voyeurism, the prosecutor with the State Attorney’s Office must prove the following three elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- That the defendant secretly observed the victim;
- That the act alleged was done with an indecent, lascivious, or lewd intent; and
- When the alleged victim was observed, he or she was in a conveyance, structure or dwelling in which he or she had a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Defending your Fort Walton Beach Video Voyeurism Case
If you have been accused of video voyeurism in Fort Walton Beach, we advise you not to speak with law enforcement before calling Flaherty & Merrifield. Regardless of what they tell you, speaking to law enforcement often leads to a conviction that may have been avoidable.
In order to give you the best chance of success, we will thoroughly review all of the evidence against you, including video evidence, police reports, witness statements, etc. We will be looking for “holes” in the State’s case. We will negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable plea. At the same time, we will prepare your case for trial so that we are prepared for whatever route needs to be taken.
Have You Been Arrested For a Sex Crime in Florida?
If you've been arrested for a sex crime in Fort Walton Beach, call Flaherty & Merrifield at (850) 243-6097 for a free, confidential case review.