On behalf of The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A.
Our Fort Lauderdale readers probably know that certain criminal allegations have the ability to stir up emotions in the public more than others. Sex crimes are one type of charge that would definitely fall within this category. The problem for most people is that media reports often have the effect of convicting a defendant in the court of public opinion before the criminal justice process even has a chance to play out. It is exactly these types of circumstances, however, when all of us must remember that every person charged with a crime has certain rights which need to be protected.
A former employee for the city of Fort Lauderdale has found himself involved in the criminal justice system, and the crimes he is charged with are just the type that has the potential to get the public riled up. According to the reports, this 47-year-old man, who was employed by the city as a part-time lifeguard, is facing 40 counts of possession of child pornography. He was arrested on March 19 and held on $50,000 bail. He was fired by the city almost immediately.
It was not initially clear how the police came about investigating this man. However, the reports indicate that a search warrant was executed at his apartment, and the search allegedly turned up computer files containing the illegal property.
A sex crimes defense is not an easy thing to plan out. An individual facing these types of charges will certainly see an aggressive prosecution effort by the authorities. From the sheer number of charges involved in this case, this man is facing the prospect of a significant prison sentence if he is convicted. It is for these reasons that anyone facing sex crimes allegations should immediately begin to consider all of the available options. If a criminal trial is ruled out as part of the defense plan, then plea bargaining negotiations will be the key to how the case turns out.
When you need a criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale, you can contact us by calling 954-533-2756 for a free consultation.