Undercover Police Sting

Published on: April 30, 2014

Sarasota County Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer :: Operation Intercept III Nets 12 Arrests for Internet Solicitation of a Child

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 12 men in an undercover sting operation dubbed “Operation Intercept III,” targeting adults who use the Internet to solicit sex from children.

The men, ranging in age from 20 to 50, arrived at a decoy house in Sarasota County allegedly intending to have sex with a child, according to detectives. Instead, they were met by undercover officers.

According to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, the men allegedly used phone applications, social media sites or Internet advertisements to contact undercover agents posing as minors or guardians of children.

Between Thursday and Saturday, agents claim that the men all engaged in sexually explicit conversations with what they believed were minors or parents of minors.

Most of the men charged in the sting believed they were talking to 14-year-old females. One case involved an agent posing as a 13-year-old girl, and another involved an agent posing as a 14-year-old boy.

One of the men arrested, a 33-year-old Tampa security officer, apparently believed he was talking to the mother of a 12-year-old girl. He allegedly started chatting with the mother on April 17 on OKCupid and then began texting. The man allegedly talked about taking the daughter’s virginity, according to reports.

Another man, 44, allegedly agreed to impregnate a 14-year-old girl, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

All of the men are charged with use of a computer to solicit a child to commit a sex act, travelling to solicit a child to commit sex and attempted lewd and lascivious battery.

Many of those arrested face additional charges related to sending nude photos or drugs.

The sheriff’s offices in Manatee and Sarasota counties have completed six stings, including this operation, in which more than 170 people have been arrested.

This is the most recent sting and the only one that has yielded less than 25 arrests.

Additional investigations related to this operation are ongoing.

Internet solicitation charges involving a minor are typically prosecuted quite aggressively. If you are facing this charge or a similar sex offense, you could be forced to deal with the serious social stigma attached to sex crimes against children as well as the very real possibility of spending years behind bars if convicted.

After the airing of the “To Catch a Predator” series, most people are familiar with how police conduct undercover Internet sex crimes investigations involving minors. However, when individuals meet online, this provides law enforcement with the opportunity to use entrapment to make their case. Entrapment brings up many constitutional rights issues, which is why the facts of your case must be thoroughly scrutinized to make sure no information was obtained illegally. Depending on the circumstances, if entrapment was used in your case, any evidence against you can be thrown out.

Published on: March 4, 2014

Lake County Criminal Defense Attorney :: Clermont Child Sex Sting Nabs 3 Disney World Employees, 19 Others

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A weeklong online undercover operation to bust child predators looking to have sex with children in Florida ended in the arrests of 22 people, including three Disney World employees, according to authorities.

Last month, undercover deputies from the Lake County cyber-crimes unit in central Florida led the sting operation, dubbed “Operation Be Mine,” and lured suspects by masquerading as children in online chat forums, according to a police press release.

Once contact was made with the suspects, undercover agents made arrangements to meet with the men at a vacant house. The men allegedly arrived at the home anticipating having sex with minors, according to police. Once the men arrived at the meet-up spot, they were immediately arrested and taken to jail.

Of those arrested include a miniature golf course worker, a paramedic and a member of the National Guard.

According to a Disney spokeswoman, the three Disney employees arrested during the undercover operation have been placed on unpaid leave for the duration of the investigation.

One of the arrested Disney employees, a 32-year-old man, also faces several additional charges including failing to disclose HIV status to a sexual partner. Another of the Disney employees allegedly arrived at the meeting location carrying a knife and condoms, according to reports.

Police also claim that one of the suspects arrested brought a Happy Meal and condoms with him to the arranged meeting place.

All of the 22 suspects face up to five years in prison if convicted.

The road ahead can be very difficult for those accused in child predator stings. In these types of cases, police set up unsuspecting individuals to make them look bad by manipulating online chats, as well as e-mails and text messages. Most of these sting operations use specials task force units that specifically train officers to create these scenarios and turn what may be an innocent statement into one with sexual undertones. Undercover sting operations involving internet sex crimes are usually handled by overzealous detectives who are looking to make a large number of arrests. Unfortunately, many times these cases involve improper procedures and/or conduct by police officers. This is why you need the help of a criminal defense lawyer who can identify such evidence and have it thrown out as well as identify weaknesses in the prosecutions’ case that revolves around illegal police behavior.

Published on: November 18, 2013

Seminole County Criminal Defense Lawyer :: Four Women Arrested in Lake Mary Prostitution Bust

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Four women were arrested last month in a prostitution sting at the La Quinta Hotel in Lake Mary.

Authorities claim the women were arrested after offering sex for hundreds of dollars at the hotel, which is located just off Interstate 4.

Undercover deputies apparently met the woman at the hotel after responding to ads listed on various websites, including Backpage.com and BodyRubList.com. The women allegedly agreed to perform sex acts for hundreds of dollars.

According to authorities, none of the women arrested live in Lake Mary.

The consequences related to a prostitution offense can be quite harsh, even if this is your first arrest. A first-time prostitution conviction can land you in county jail for up to 60 days. A second conviction can result in one year behind bars. A third or subsequent conviction for prostitution can carry up to five years in prison. Along with jail and/or prison time, a prostitution conviction can ruin your reputation, destroy your personal relationships and even restrict future career options.

If you have been arrested for a prostitution-related offense in Lake Mary, Oviedo, Altamonte Springs or the surrounding area, know that there is help available to you. A Seminole County Criminal Defense Attorney at Whittel & Melton can make sure you understand the charges against you and what can be done to defeat them. As former prosecutors, we are very familiar with the inner workings of undercover prostitution stings and are knowledgeable about the laws involving entrapment. We can review the State’s case against you and challenge evidence involving these undercover busts while pursuing the strongest defense for your prostitution charges.

Published on: September 23, 2013

Clay County Criminal Defense Lawyer :: Jury Convicts Clay County Man in Child Sex Sting

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

After a four-hour long jury deliberation, a Clay County man was found guilty of arranging to meet a child for sex by an Alachua County jury on Sept. 13.

According to the 8th Circuit State Attorney’s Office, the 33-year-old man was arrested last year as part of an undercover sting investigation.

The man will be sentenced on Oct. 28.

The man was arrested in February 2012 during a sting operation where the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office posted an advertisement on Craigslist offering sex with a juvenile.
He was charged with soliciting a minor for unlawful sex using computer services or devices, improper use of computer services and traveling to meet a minor.

Internet solicitation charges between an adult and minor are viewed as a very serious offense throughout the state of Florida. The government has made it quite clear that an undercover detective posing as a juvenile online is not entrapment, and for every solicitation made, you could be slapped with a third-degree felony. This means that you could be facing five years in prison for every solicitation made. Additionally, Florida legislature has specific laws and punishments for adults who meet with minors after a solicitation has occurred. Any adult that travels to meet a minor for the purposes of engaging in sexual activity can be charged with a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years behind bars.

While Internet sex crimes are all fact specific, understand that any and all sex crime allegations are serious. One simple accusation can dramatically affect your reputation, relationships and possibly your freedom. If you have been accused of any type of sex crime in Orange Park, Green Cove Springs, Middleburg, Keystone Heights or the surrounding area, you need the help of a Clay county Criminal Defense Lawyer at Whittel & Melton who can protect your reputation and work to minimize the potential punishment. As trial attorneys, we are here to help you understand what to expect should you face a sex crime charge or conviction.

Published on: May 15, 2013

Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer :: 20 Men Arrested in Tallahassee Child Sex Sting

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

An Internet sex sting in Tallahassee last month dubbed “Operation April Fools” yielded 20 arrests in 5 days.

All of the men arrested are accused of soliciting minors for sex. According to police, 14 of the men showed up in person.

Police posed as 12, 13 and 14-year-olds online. According to reports, none of the men arrested stopped chatting with the teens about sex once they found out their age.

Police claim that one man traveled three hours all the way from Andalusia, Alabama with the hopes of meeting a 14-year-old boy for sex. He was immediately arrested once he showed up at the decoy house.

Tallahassee Police and Leon County Sheriff’s Office worked together on the sting along with other state and federal officers.

Among the men arrested include an attorney with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation and a reserve deputy with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Both men have been fired.

Undercover Internet child sex stings, like “Operation April Fools,” happen every day throughout the state of Florida and across the country. Law enforcement agents are constantly increasing their enforcement of the Internet in relation to alleged child sex predators by conducting undercover sting operations. Whether detectives pose as minors or the parents or guardians of young children, much time and money is poured into these undercover schemes. The purpose of these Internet sex traps is to make a considerable amount of arrests in a short period of time, and the Internet has only helped police achieve the desired outcome.

Published on: January 29, 2013

Gainesville Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer :: Three Men Arrested in Online Predator Sting

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Gainesville, FL – The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office arrested three men this weekend in an Internet sex sting, including the Risk Manager for a University of Florida fraternity and a mechanic.

The men, ages 20, 23 and 40, were taken into custody after allegedly engaging in online chats and agreeing to meet an underage girl for sex.

The sting, dubbed “Operation Nightlight,” started Thursday and ended Sunday morning.

According to the sheriff’s office, undercover detectives used unspecified chat forums to talk with the men.

Once they arrived at the predetermined locations, they were arrested immediately.

The 20-year-old fraternity member is accused of conversing with the father of a 14-year-old girl about engaging in sexual activity with the girl.

He is charged with two third-degree felonies and one second-degree felony.

The 23-year-old man was allegedly involved in a former sting called “Tailspin,” but was never arrested because he did not actually show up at the arranged meeting spot. The man was arrested this time and charged with two second-degree felonies and three third-degree felonies. His bond is set at $250,000.

The 40-year-old mechanic is facing charges of one second-degree felony and two third-degree felonies. His bail is set at $75,000.

Internet sexual predator stings, like the one above, aim to protect underage children from online predators. Undercover detectives will place ads online or hang out in chat rooms and lure unsuspecting individuals into engaging in sexually explicit conversations. Once a location is agreed upon to meet at, the suspects will be placed under arrest as soon as they show up. The location of the decoy spot is usually never revealed so that police can use it again in future stings. These undercover operations can result in serious criminal charges so it is important to act fast and enlist the help of a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Sex crimes involving children are prosecuted quite aggressively in the state of Florida. All of the men arrested in “Operation Nightlight” face a second-degree felony charge, which if convicted, carries a maximum of 15 years in prison. These charges should never be taken lightly, as they can negatively impact a person’s personal and professional life permanently. The repercussions of a felony sex crime charge can cost a person their job, get them kicked out of school and worse, brand them a sexual offender for the rest of their life.

Published on: January 15, 2013

Bartow Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer :: Polk County Prostitution Sting Nets 78 Arrests

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Bartow, FL – A three-day undercover operation targeting online prostitution ads has resulted in dozens of people being arrested.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office conducted the operation between January 10 and January 13. At the end of the sting, a total of 78 people were arrested, including a porn star and a police recruit.

Of those arrested, 31 have criminal histories, including nine registered felons. Deputies claim that one of those felons has been previously arrested 38 times in the Tampa Bay area.

According to detectives, those arrested for solicitation of prostitution either posted or responded to online advertisements offering sex. Many of those arrested face additional charges, including possession of drugs, aiding and abetting, escape, traffic offenses, battery on a law enforcement officer, violation of probation and failure to register as a sex offender.

In recent years, law enforcement agents throughout the state of Florida have increased their enforcement of solicitation for prostitution by conducting sting operations using police decoys. In fact, numerous time and resources are poured into undercover prostitution stings in hopes of making a considerable amount of arrests.
The Internet has only helped undercover detectives catch unsuspecting men and women engaging in or soliciting prostitution.

If you were arrested for prostitution anywhere in Florida, in order to receive the best possible outcome for your situation you must consult with a sex crimes defense lawyer immediately. The consequences attached to a prostitution offense can be harsh, even if this is your first arrest. A first-time conviction can result in up to 60 days in county jail. A second conviction can land you in jail for up to one year. A third or subsequent conviction for prostitution can be classified as a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. Along with time behind bars, a prostitution conviction can tarnish your good name within the community, wreck your personal relationships and limit future career options.

A Polk County Criminal Defense Attorney at Whittel & Melton can look into your arrest and make sure police followed proper protocols. In these types of cases, there is always the possibility that you were the victim of police misconduct or entrapment, which can be used as a defense against the charges against you. We will advise you of your legal rights and make sure you fully understand the options available to you. We will exhaust every effort available to make sure you receive a successful outcome.

Published on: June 18, 2012

Central Florida Elementary School Principal Arrested in Undercover Drug Bust :: Whittel & Melton

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 43-year-old elementary school principal was arrested on drug charges Friday after deputies searched his St. Cloud home and allegedly found methamphetamine, marijuana, GHB and drug paraphernalia.

Authorities claim the arrest stems from an undercover sting operation.

The man allegedly provided an undercover agent with drugs, including methamphetamines.

He was charged with possession and delivery of drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

He was transported to the Osceola County Jail.

State and federal prosecutors take drug charges quite seriously. They tend to show no mercy to those suspected of dealing drugs and usually seek heavy jail time for those facing delivery charges. On top of jail time, you could be facing the forfeiture of your home, vehicles and other property. The Florida Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can examine the events leading up to your arrest and review the search and seizure of your property to find any violations of police protocol. In many drug cases, illegal search and seizure has resulted in a suppression of evidence and charges being dismissed entirely.

Selling or distributing drugs in Florida is always a felony offense. The sentencing can vary based on the type of drug and other conditions. The potential penalties associated with a felony drug charge usually involve lengthy prison time and substantial fines. Law enforcement officers as well as prosecutors work vehemently towards obtaining a conviction in all areas of drug delivery or sales. Because of this, it is essential to launch an aggressive line of defense right away. Unfortunately, many people arrested for drug charges fail to secure a criminal defense lawyer’s help because they feel they cannot fight the charges stacked against them. However, a powerful defense strategy may be all that stands between you and your freedom.

The Florida Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton strive to reduce any penalties you may face as a result of drug charges. It is important to understand that early representation is critical to the success of your case.

Published on: March 13, 2012

Tampa – Orlando Prostitution Sting Lawyers :: Polk County Prostitution Sting Targeting Online Ads Nets 19 Arrests

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Whittel & Melton, LLC 1-866-608-5LAW (5529) – Florida Sex Crime Attorneys

Detectives with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office have arrested 19 people in an undercover prostitution bust targeting online advertisements.

Undercover officials conducted the two-day sting focusing on online ads for prostitution last Thursday and Friday.

According to police, both male and female detectives posted and answered ads for sex on Backpage.com. The operation ended in the arrest of 19 people for crimes ranging from soliciting prostitution to narcotics violations.

Six of the suspects allegedly admitted to being married.

A spokesman for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office said that online escort services promoting prostitution will continue to be targeted and those who commit or derive proceeds from prostitution will be arrested.

In the past, most prostitution stings took place on the streets. With the advent of the Internet and web sites that allow individuals to advertise services, including sex, authorities have a tremendous amount of political and social pressures placed on them to curb illegal behavior, which means keeping up with today’s technology. Today, police agencies may place online advertisements equipped with a photo of a male or female offering sexual services in an effort to crack down on solicitation. In fact, law enforcement agencies often invest substantial resources into these vice squad operations.

It is not uncommon for individuals arrested in a police prostitution sting to feel entrapped. Unfortunately, an undercover sting does not always translate to police entrapment. Engaging in any kind of negotiations, especially communications over price can be interpreted by authorities as an act of solicitation. However, this does not mean that you have no viable defense available to you. The Florida Sex Crimes Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can discuss potential defense strategies with you and protect you in court.

It is important to note that the criminal justice system is a public system. Our attorneys understand that your privacy is important and will act as discreetly as possible in all matters pertaining to your case. We can address your specific needs and concerns and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. In order to protect your best interests, it is vital to contact the Florida Sex Crimes Lawyers at Whittel & Melton right away.

Published on: January 3, 2012

Florida Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers Whittel & Melton :: Ex-Chicago Bears WR Sam Hurd Released from Federal Jail after Posting $100K Cash Bond

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Sam Hurd was released from the Metropolitan Correctional Center on Dec. 16 after posting $100,000 cash bail, but the former Bears receiver will now have to look for a job elsewhere.

The team decided to cut Hurd on Dec. 16 after reviewing the drug allegations stacked against him.

Hurd was arrested on Dec. 14 outside of a Chicago steakhouse. He is accused of accepting a kilo of cocaine from an undercover federal agent masquerading as a drug dealer. He is also accused of attempting to set up a major drug network.

Police claim that Hurd told the undercover agent that he wished to purchase five to 10 kilos of cocaine and 1,000 pounds of marijuana a week to sell in Chicago and that he was supposedly moving four kilos of cocaine a week.

After appearing in court and posting bond, Hurd’s attorney did not respond to any of the specific allegations in the criminal complaint, but did address the rumors that Hurd was supplying drugs to various NFL players as 100 percent false.

Charges against Hurd have been filed in Texas, which is where his next court date will be. While no date is set as of yet, it should be scheduled within the next 30 days, after a grand jury hears the case.

A former federal prosecutor shared that the case against Hurd appears to be solid based off the criminal complaint, but other factors could play a role in how the case shapes up, including what information Hurd can offer prosecutors build a case against others.

It is not mentioned whether Hurd will attempt to get picked up by another team as he fights the drug case with the potential to put him in jail for 40 years.

The most serious drug crime in the state of Florida, whether prosecuted in state or federal court, is drug trafficking. Under Florida Statutes, a person in possession of less than a kilo of cocaine can be charged with drug trafficking. In fact, the only difference between cocaine possession and cocaine trafficking boils down to the amount of cocaine seized during the time of arrest. Individuals could face anywhere from three to 25 years in prison for drug charges in Florida, contingent upon the type of drug and the amount seized.

In Florida, oftentimes drug trafficking charges stem from undercover sting operations. Depending on how initial contact was made between the accused and an undercover officer as well as how the drug evidence was seized, possible trafficking charges could be dropped. Undercover drug busts must follow clear-cut procedures and drug charges can be dismissed if law enforcement officers neglected to acquire an appropriate warrant, used an illegal wiretap or failed to link the accused to the alleged drugs due to scarce evidence.

Despite the allegations surrounding your drug arrest and what federal agencies may be involved, the Florida Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton may be able to assist you in combatting state or federal drug charges. If your charges cannot be dismissed, we prepare for trial and in the meantime will negotiate with prosecutors for the least amount of prison time or even request a suspended or alternative sentence. Many times in drug cases, the State’s case may fall under a gray area and our attorneys can pick out the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case to better defend you.