The most hated people on earth are those who commit sex crimes, especially if they involve children. Short of murder, there is probably no more heinous crime that could be committed. It’s not politically correct to defend those accused of such crimes. In fact, many lawyers, including myself, have been publicly criticized for doing so. […]
Why We Defend Sex Crimes Read More »
Like a first date, it all seems good. You’re attracted to each other, what could possibly go wrong? So, you say to yourself, I’m going for it! You sleep together. Months down the road, there’s a baby on the way and all of a sudden the perfect relationship you thought you’d found on that first
When Criminal Justice Marries Politics Read More »
For a few years now, the advent of DNA technology has been heralded as a victory for justice and protection against wrongful accusations in criminal cases. Technology that was once beyond our grasp has now been able to conclusively prove the innocence or guilt of thousands of people in criminal trials. Yet, DNA advancements cut
DNA a Two-Edged Sword Read More »
The former cop dubbed the Golden State killer had eluded police for decades. He was finally arrested and had linked him to more than 50 rapes and 12 murders from 1976 to 1986. He was nabbed through his own DNA. Even as scientific experts applauded this week’s arrest of the Golden State Killer suspect, Joseph
Good News: Golden State Killer Caught, Bad News: Now Your Privacy May Be at Risk Read More »
After years of accusations, investigations, and a mistrial, Bill Cosby has been found guilty of three counts of sexual assault. The three counts — penetration with lack of consent, penetration while unconscious, and penetration after administering an intoxicant — are felonies, each punishable by up to 10 years in state prison, though the sentences could
Bill Cosby Found Guilty on All 3 Counts of Sexual Assault Read More »
In 2015, Texas elected officials passed a bill making it a misdemeanor to publish intimate photos of an ex-partner. Laws have been enacted across the country that make it a crime to commit what has come to be known as revenge porn. However, last week a Texas appeals court struck down that law arguing it
Revenge Porn in Texas is Alive and Well, For Now Read More »
A former candidate for City Council in St. Petersburg, Akile Anai, will be going to court later this month to face charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Anai, a vocal member of the city’s Uhuru movement, claims she is the target of police and political action. As in most of these cases, there are
Former St. Pete City Council Candidate Faces Resisting Arrest Charge Read More »
Get tough on crime is a favorite political slogan of politicians, including those in the Sunshine State. Before he switched parties and was elected to the US House of Representatives, Charlie Crist was one of those politicians who used “get tough on crime” to advance his political career. He was even nicknamed “Chain gang Charlie”.
Crime and Punishment Florida Style Read More »
Witnesses are usually most effective in situations where they are unimpeachable. The integrity of a witness depends on two things-the reliability of their testimony as well as their personal integrity. No lawyer wants to put a witness on the stand that can be impeached because of a checkered history. Yet, that’s exactly what Miami-Dade prosecutors
Improbable Witness Helps Convict Driver on DUI Charges Read More »
DUI arrests spike at this time of the year. Police set up wolf packs to nab drunk drivers and drivers don’t take into account this increased law enforcement focus of DUI arrests. From Thanksgiving until after the New Year, many Pinellas residents will begin the New Year facing legal issues and mounting bills because they
DUI in Pinellas County ‘Tis the Season Read More »